What is the main purpose of the 'peek a boo' technique in teaching turning?

The 'peek a boo' technique primarily aims to enhance a child's comfort and confidence while learning to turn in the water. This technique engages the child in a playful and interactive manner, making the learning experience more enjoyable and less intimidating. By using an element of surprise and playfulness, such as mimicking the gestures associated with the game, the child feels relaxed and more willing to experiment with turning. This approach alleviates fears and builds trust between the instructor and the child, which is essential for effective learning in aquatic environments. As the child becomes more comfortable with the concept of turning, they are more likely to gain confidence in their swimming abilities overall.

While public safety is important in swimming instruction, the peek a boo technique is not directly aimed at addressing safety concerns. Similarly, directional training and recuperation exercises are focused on specific skills or recovery processes that do not align with the main objective of fostering a child’s comfort in the water setting.