The aim of this thesis is to present the possibility for preventing and eliminateaing a fear in children who are learning how to swim. Since fear is often very common in the first stages of swimming lessons, our main goals will be identifying and preventing the issues that cause fear in the first place. This is the reason why the first part of the thesis focues to the psychological background of children. Psychology is an important factor when learning how to swim, which is why understanding a child's emotional component is crucial.
In the following chapters, I present some of the various manifestations of fear of water. In order to facilitate the detection of the problem, the most common indicators of fear in children are also included. The foundation of fear can be found in the child's first contact with water. Since the fear of water is not something we are born with, it is based on past negative experiences. The goal is to prevent these negative experiences and allow the child to learn how to swim through game activities that foster a relationship of trust. The child must be offered an optimal environment with an emphasis on meeting safety, medical and pedagogic criteria. To help with the choice of accessories to be used during the lessons, I include a list of acessories and outline their pros and cons. The thesis also contains a section describing various games that prevent and help fight the existing fear of water. A great part of the fear of water can be eliminated by having the child submerge their head and open their eyes underwater. Games that feature this activity are also included.
The thesis was created by consulting the appropriate Slovene and foreign materials. Additionally, the findings are also supported by the experience that I have so far gained by working in this field. It is intended for teachers, parents, and everyone who wishes to create a comfortable environment to teach children how to swim.
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