[playswithfire]

Don't be nervous about SV. It's really fun and once they get the idea, they really love it. And, like you said, it is a great way to get some "POP" into their jumps!

On Friday, there should be some SV practice time after the last splash of the day. They will set up the apparatus, and let people practice, and if they need help, they will be there to help you. Ursula is great at giving advice, and she will be there. I'd start out playing with the SV bumper in line with him, holding it out, by the strings. Then, put it on the pole while in line, so he remembers how to grab it from something other than you. When you get on the dock, keep it on the pole that you hold, and once he's taking the leap of faith off the dock for the bumper, you can start attatching it to the apparatus. You don't need to start out with lots of running room, just at the dock's edge. If they don't have confidence, then they stop at the end, and they don't use the extra space anyways.

Hope this helps. That's how we started out at an event, so that's how we know to get them jumping. We will be there bright an early on Saturday AM and will stay for Sunday. See you there.