In a decision to minimise COVID-19 safety and compliance issues, the Lower North Coast Surf Life Saving branch has delayed the start of nippers' activities for all its clubs until Sunday, December 5.

Junior development within Surf Life Saving Australia had its origins in the 1960s from where it has grown to include programs of lessons and resources which are tailored to each age group from five (under six) to 13 (under 14) years.

The curriculum covers a diverse range of skills from body surfing, catching waves on boards, aquatic rescues, first aid, CPR and safety in the surf environment.

Programs are based on participatory evaluation and not assessed on competence.

This means that children only need to be actively involved in lessons to be eligible for their end-of-season Surf Education Award.

The 'senior' nippers of age 13 years can proceed to the Surf Rescue Certificate in order to participate in beach patrol lifesaving operations and act in the role of Water Safety Personnel to assist younger nippers.

Not only are SLSC junior members integral as a pipeline for future active beach patrols but, through nippers education, they also ensure that the next generation has the knowledge and skills which, one day, may save their own life or the life of another.

Nippers registration will have two options with the first option being club registration only, while the second option involves the use of the NSW Active Kids voucher which covers club registration plus a nippers pack.

This pack includes the relevant age-specific coloured skull cap, a grey nippers storage bag, a 'pinkie' vest, a drink bottle and a tube of sunscreen.

Registration days for Forster SLSC nippers have been set for 9am on December 5 and 12 with activities starting at 9.30am.

For each child, a responsible adult is also required to become a club member so a family membership is advised.

Parents and carers are able to pre-register online at https://sls.com.au/join/

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