On 4-6 April, the 6th International ABA (Austrian Babyswim Association) Conference took place in Mondsee, Austria, with the participation of Bambino SPA physiotherapist Viktorija Lapinskė. This specialised event dedicated to baby bonding is a very rare event even internationally, with the best professionals from Italy, Indonesia, Great Britain, Sweden, Australia and Austria sharing their experience.
Science-based methodologies
The conference showcased the latest techniques for baby transfers, which emphasise an individual approach to each child’s age, physical development and emotional needs. The conference focused on two areas that are particularly close to the Bambino SPA practice:
- Aqua Education Academy (UK) lecturers Julie Kamara and Zara Peasland presented the principles of injury-free diving, a topic of particular relevance as incorrect, adult-initiated diving can have a negative impact on a child’s psychological state.
- Julie-ann James from Aqua Babies (Australia) stressed the importance of tailoring floatation activities to the baby’s developmental stage, creating a play-based, fun and motivating environment for the child.
The experience of these countries is especially important for our centres – Bambino SPA has been working closely with mentors from these organisations for many years, applying their certified and patented methodologies in daily practice.
Focusing on children’s emotions and the quality of learning
One of the main focuses of this year’s conference is the emotional state of the child during the float. The presentations highlighted that:
- Diving for a child should be a natural experience, tailored to the child’s preparation, rather than traumatic.
- Taking pictures and filming in the pool can have a negative effect – shifting the focus from the activity to the camera, making it harder for the child to connect with the practitioner and reducing the quality of learning.
- Statistics show that children lack uninterrupted attention without the interference of screens. Direct attention is important for their optimal development. If we do an exercise in the pool just to capture a moment, it has a negative effect on the child.
Growing with the world
Attending conferences at this level is not only a way to increase your knowledge, but also a commitment to your community. Learning from the world’s best, continuous improvement and the application of science-based methodologies that respect the dignity of the child – these are the values of Bambino SPA, which we have consistently upheld.
We continue our mission to give children not only a safe, but also an emotionally harmonious and effective swimming start – one that inspires them to return to the pool again and again.
