Each week at BestStart Palm Springs, a lucky group of children head out on an exciting adventure to Fulton Swim School.
The journey itself is all part of the fun! We hop on the bus together, and after a short ride, we enjoy a little walk through the community.
Along the way, we pass the Fire Station and a big mechanics workshop—places that always spark wonderful conversations and questions from the children. This little journey helps build their curiosity, confidence, and connection to the world around them.
Once we arrive at the pool, the children are grouped according to their swimming ability. The skilled and friendly coaches at Fulton Swim School make sure every child gets the support they need. During lessons, the children are not only developing their confidence in the water, but they’re also learning:
- Water safety skills
- Floating and kicking techniques
- Basic swimming strokes
- Breath control
- How to follow instructions carefully
- How to stay safe in and around the pool
It’s amazing to watch their progress week by week! We’ve noticed something really special: with regular weekly sessions, the children are developing a higher level of responsibility and independence.
They also learn how to:
- Organise themselves
- Look after their belongings
- Get ready for lessons
- Listen attentively to the coach
- Follow routines and expectations
These are big life skills that will continue to support them both in and out of the water. When the children return to the centre, they are so proud to share what they learned that day—whether it’s blowing bubbles for the first time, floating independently, or trying a new kick.
Their smiles say it all! Living so close to the beautiful Papamoa Beach, it’s wonderful to know our tamariki are building the confidence and safety skills they need to enjoy the water throughout their lives.