By Norwegian Swimming Federation, Thea Svendsby and Krisfoffer Brattgjerd
I CAN stay calm and balanced while being splashed.
I KNOW that splashing water in the face is part of swimming and not dangerous.
I REACT by staying still and letting the water hit me without fear.
I FEEL confident and safe even when water is in my eyes or face and can trust my partner during the task.
The child remains in position, doesn't block or turn away from the splash, and completes the exercise with a partner
Shallow water (hip-depth)
Equipment: None
Space: Approx. 1x2 meters per pair. It depends on group size.
Group size: Pairs or Small group
Instructor ensures mutual respect between partners.
1-5 min
Can be part of a trust-building or confidence session and during initial, main or final part
Water habituation
Instruction: “Stand still while your partner splashes water on your face. Try not to move or block the splash.”
Differentiation: Adjust splash force or let children decide when they’re ready.
1. The child stands in hip-deep water.
2. A partner stands in front and splashes water towards the child’s face.
3. The child is allowed to use their arms for some protection but may not turn away.
4. The child must stay in place and allow the splashing for at least 15 seconds.
Hands should not be held directly in front of the face during the exercise.
