SUPPORTED SAFE POOL ENTRY AND EXIT
Teach basic safe entry and exit from the pool with full support for children and adolescents with significant mobility or sensory challenges.
How to Perform
- Position the child seated on the pool edge or top step while the adult stands in front in shallow water.
- Explain that entry will be slow and supported, then hold the child securely under the arms or around the trunk.
- Guide the child into the water one leg at a time, helping both feet find the pool floor before releasing any support.
- Practice returning to sitting by helping the child step up to the first or second step and then sit safely back on the edge.
- Repeat the supported entry and exit several times, using the same predictable steps and clear verbal cues.
Key Execution Cues
Remember: Move slowly and use the same sequence each time,
encourage the child to look at the step or seat, and praise calm cooperation.
Safety & Precautions
Important: Use extreme caution with uncontrolled seizures, severe
behavioral dysregulation, or very low trunk control; require hands-on assistance
from a trained adult.
Additional Safety Notes: Maintain continuous physical contact during entry and exit, never allow the child to jump or slide unexpectedly, and avoid slippery edges.
Exercise Modifications
Make it Harder (Progressions)
Encourage the child to place hands on the edge and help push up, or to step down with less lifting support from the adult.
Make it Easier (Regressions)
Keep the child on the steps only, assist most of the movement, or practice partial immersion without full entry.