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A new programme for pre-schoolers, aged 2–4, which is held on a beach, is coming to the Hibiscus Coast this summer.
Founded in 2010 the programme has run for seven years on Mt Maunganui and Papamoa beaches, where director and owner Ange Johnston says it has become popular with families with young children.
Ange says the move to bring the programme to the Hibiscus Coast has been in the pipeline for a few years now.
It is a way to promote water safety and active recreation among preschoolers – an interest that stems from Ange’s background in surf lifesaving, which includes managing the 2016 Junior Surf Life Saving Team. She has also been involved in swim teaching for more than 12 years, specialising in preschool groups.
Ange grew up and spent 30 years on the Hibiscus Coast before moving to Papamoa. “The decision to bring Beach Kidz to Stanmore Bay was easy – it is still one of my favourite beaches and has so much to offer young families,” she says.
Each child that takes part in Beach Kidz classes must have a caregiver with them and classes are limited to 10 participants.
“Children gain confidence and trust through having a parent, caregiver or teacher alongside them. A happy child will play, which leads to learning. We ensure the children are experiencing and learning fundamental skills, water safety, spatial awareness, team involvement and so much more.”
Beach Kidz is an 8-week course run on Mondays with morning and afternoon sessions, starting on January 30. Enrolments are open. Info: www.beachkidz.co.nz
