What is the Starfish Nippers Program?
The Point Leo SLSC Starfish Nipper Program will be running again as part of the Junior Surf Life Saving Program (JLSP). This is a modified Nipper program for children and young adults with special needs, which will be run in conjunction with the regular Nipper program.
The Starfish Nipper Program caters for children and young adults from 6 years and over with a disability – including autism, Down syndrome, physical and intellectual disabilities and learning difficulties. The Starfish Nipper Program was created by Anglesea SLSC (see link to video below) and is now operating at many lifesaving clubs around Victoria.
Activities for Starfish Nippers include traditional beach games and activities, beach running, beach flags, swimming, board skills, water familiarisation, beach, water and surf safety. The program will offer positive instruction and encouragement along the way. Depending on their ability, each Starfish Nipper will have a dedicated helper with a ratio of 1:1 for beach activities and in some cases, 2:1 for water activities. This ensures that the program can be specially tailored to meet individual needs and skill levels in and out of the water. We do have a policy that a parent or carer must be on the beach at all times whilst the session is being run, in case additional assistance is required.
What qualifications do trainers need to have? Who can become a trainer?
Trainers will be volunteer club members, many of whom will have their Bronze Medallion or Surf Rescue Certificate. They will be selected for their passion for supporting the program and reliability for attending the majority of sessions. Experience working with people with a disability is not required. All trainers must have a current Working with Children card and will complete an induction program.
What kind of membership is needed?
You will need a Point Leo SLSC membership to participate in the Starfish Nipper Program. If you are under 18, you must join as part of a family. If you are over 18 you need an individual membership.
Why do I need to provide so much information at enrolment? How is the information used?
As part of the enrolment process, parents are asked to include details regarding any medical, social or communication issues their child has. This is so we can provide the highest level of safety for your child and offer the best possible program suited to their individual needs. Please let us know if any of these details change. The information will be kept by the Program Coordinator in a folder on the beach during all sessions.
When will the sessions run?
The 9-10 sessions will be conducted on the same days as our existing Nipper program running from 9 am till 10:15 am each Nipper day (these will be published when confirmed).
Is there a Starfish interclub carnival?
Yes – LSV will be run the Victorian Starfish Carnival in January. We will aim to keep Starfish running on Sundays (same time as the Point Leo Junior Surf Life Saving competition program) for training until then.
If you are interested in finding out more about the Starfish Nipper program – please click here
If you would like to enrol a child or young adult into the program – please click here
If you are interested in becoming a trainer for the program – please click here
If you have any other comments or questions, please contact Jane Starr at starfish@pointleoslsc.com.au
