Welcome to the Joyful Waters Course Manual, your essential resource for teaching infants and toddlers water safety and skills. This manual is designed specifically for instructors in the Joyful Waters program, which includes two curricula: First Splash for infants 6–18 months and Aqua Explorers for toddlers 19–36 months. Whether you're introducing babies to their first splash in the water or helping toddlers build confidence, this manual provides the structured framework and resources you need to teach effectively and safely. Inside, you’ll find comprehensive guidance on defining learning objectives, creating structured lesson plans, setting prerequisites, and tracking student progress. The course covers essential topics such as establishing standards for certification, maintaining records, and communicating with parents. Please note, while this manual is a crucial part of the certification process, it does not provide certification on its own. Instructors will still need to complete the required in-water skill sessions, presentations, and tests to become fully certified. This manual is designed to support your role as a Joyful Waters instructor, offering teaching tips, lesson plans, and helpful resources to create a positive, engaging, and safe learning environment for both you and your students. The Joyful Waters program emphasizes the importance of nurturing a love of water, safety, and learning in young children, and we’re excited to partner with you in this rewarding journey. We are confident that, as an instructor, you will play a vital role in helping children develop the foundational skills that will shape their love for swimming. Your commitment to their safety and success is crucial in building a joyful and confident generation of young swimmers. Welcome to the Joyful Waters family – we look forward to seeing the impact you’ll have!