A modified and structured special needs Nippers Program
The program runs in conjunction with the existing club nippers program
What is Starfish Nippers
Beach safety and water awareness for all abilities
For children and young adults aged 7 and above with special needs
Access for young people with a diverse range of special needs
All individuals are treated with respect and dignity
Designed for all abilities
Autism Spectrum Disorders Aspergers Syndrome Down Syndrome Learning difficulties and
developmental delay Intellectual Disabilities Cerebral palsy Visual/Auditory/Sensory
processing disorders Physical difficulties Hearing impairments Epilepsy
Program Designed for.
Inclusion To run in conjunction with the age group
nippers Improve safety skills and awareness on the
beach and in the water for special needs participants
Engaging cadet and junior volunteers Broader engagement Opportunity for non-qualified members to be engaged
Aims & Objectives
Fun and Laughter Beach safety and water awareness
Team work
Goals
Inclusion and general goodwill Social skills Water awareness Improves fitness and skills Parent networking Sense of worth for trainers Life/long term member engagement Inclusion
Benefits
‘Go starfish’ Chant Starfish nipper song (optional) Warm up run & stretches Flags (modified) Ball games Surf patrol talk Relays with other age groups Wading activity Board skills and catching waves Body surfing Sand activities ‘Good bye Starfish’ chant
Program include.
Nippers with Special needs learn best by:
Repetition Routine Example Clear simple instructions Watching demonstrations / being
shown Visual prompts Hand directions and signals Firm, direct and friendly instructions
with a smile on your face Observing good role models
Best Practice.
Parent/Guardian must be on the beach at all times during the program Staying with the group at all times Only entering the water with a water safety officer/s Always swim between the flags/allocated swimming
area Must wear nipper hat/uniform at all times whilst at
Nippers Trainer must accompany all nippers to the toliet Sunscreen must be worn Wear a wetsuit -weather permitting
Best Practice…
Ratio 1 trainer to 1 nipper in the water and depending on their individual needs 2 trainers to 1 nipper in the water.
One water safety trainer with Bronze or SRC with each nipper in the water
Water activities including swimming and wading on patrolled beach between flags at all times
Board activities in the board area of the flags
Best Practice…
Make sure a family member is on the beach at all times
Aware of the child’s ability, taking into account their swimming ability.
Do not take nippers out beyond their depth if they have limited swimming skills
At the end of the session, everyone helps pack up
Rules
Have I got your interest?
Contact Details:Brian KirkMentone Life Saving ClubMB: 0418 517 811