Introduction to Teaching Breaststroke to Children
Teaching breaststroke through the Laurie Lawrence method of teaching focuses on many different factors. For example, it starts with isolating the kicking and pulling skills so that quick, efficient and correct mastery is achieved. For most young children, it is the most challenging stroke to learn.
The first recorded Olympic breaststroke was over 200 meters. The winner was British swimmer Frederick Holman in 3 minutes and 9.2 seconds. Another British swimmer, named William Robinson, came in second place.
Breaststroke is the most challenging stroke
Breaststroke is challenging because the kick requires dorsiflexion of the foot. This in conjunction with plantarflexion, which is also in use in freestyle and butterfly. For most swimming teachers, the major mistake they can make is that they try to progress children too quickly. The stroke then unfortunately results in children using an incorrect kick.
Laurie's Method of Teaching
The Laurie Lawrence method of teaching breaststroke is a comprehensive method of gradual skill development. As each skill is mastered, the next skill is introduced, which maintains the building block method of teaching swimming. The Laurie Lawrence method of teaching breaststroke focuses on isolating the kicking and pulling skills. As a result, quick, efficient and correct mastery is achieved.
Learning to swim should be a positive experience for both parent and child. There are a number of skills that you need to understand and learn how to teach breaststroke, even if you are a parent.
Skills to Teach Breaststroke
- Introduction to the stroke
- Dead Frog Float
- Specific kicks
- Dividing the skills
- Teaching arm technique
- Breathing
- Pull and Kick
- Ready for the stroke
Teaching this stroke requires gradual skill development. As each skill is mastered, the next skill is introduced, which maintains the building block approach.
Skills to Improve Breaststroke
Now take a look at this short video to give you an overview of what you need to know.
Well done, that is the first step to being better prepared and equipped with the knowledge and skills to assist your little one through to becoming a confident and happy little swimmer.
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