Scooping (skill)
Definition: A parent skill performed during supported front glides: the parent uses a football hold grip in front float, gives a consistent cue like "1, 2, 3!", and steps backwards while scooping water over the child's face.
Core cues:
- "1, 2, 3!"
Coach interpretation:
- Football hold grip in front float: the parent must hold the child using the football hold grip during the front float.
- Consistent cue like "1, 2, 3!": the parent must give the same cue every time before the scoop.
- Backwards step and scoop pushing water over the child's face: the parent must step backwards and scoop water over the child's face.
- Smile and embrace: the parent must smile and embrace the child.
- Expectation of scoop and going under with comfort: watch for the swimmer expecting the scoop and going under with comfort.
- Closed eyes, breath held, relaxed recovery: watch for the swimmer closing eyes, holding breath, and recovering relaxed.
Teaching strategy:
Teach the parent the football hold grip in front float. Have the parent give a consistent cue like "1, 2, 3!" Then have the parent step backwards and scoop pushing water over the child's face. Remind the parent to smile and embrace. Build toward the swimmer expecting the scoop and going under with comfort, with closed eyes, breath held, and relaxed recovery.
Common errors and corrections:
- No consistent cue: use a consistent cue like "1, 2, 3!"
- Parent does not step backwards and scoop: step backwards and scoop pushing water over the child's face.
- Parent does not smile and embrace: smile and embrace.
Progression:
Supported front glides (parent skill: football hold; palms up hold on belly; knowledge of scooping and face in water with kisses) come before Scooping. Scooping is a parent skill within supported front glides.
Short verified cues (confirmed present; check by eye): “Smile and embrace.”