Ans

Ans is a proud mother of one daughter and feels completely at home in the water – preferably surrounded by young children. Water has always been an important part of her life. From a young age, she spent hours in the pool and swam at a competitive level with PSV in Eindhoven.

Today, Ans is a certified ABC swimming instructor and aqua fitness instructor. With great dedication, she guides both children and adults in learning to swim. Her greatest passion? Helping children trust themselves and believe in their own strength again. The most beautiful moments of growth often happen in the water.

In addition to her experience in swimming, Ans has a broad background in energy work, music education, herbal medicine, and child psychology. This unique combination ensures that she looks beyond swimming technique and considers the child as a whole.

Recently, she also completed the Self Rescue training at Children of the Water. With this, she aims to teach even the youngest children how to safely and independently rescue themselves in the water.

With warmth, expertise, and attention, Ans creates a safe environment where every child can grow – in the water and beyond.

Helma

As a child, Helma spent as much time in the water as she possibly could. After receiving all her swimming certificates, she continued her journey in the water by gaining a variety of degrees at the life guard association. When her second child was born, Helma realised she wanted to work in the water with children and got her Swim Instructors degree. She’s been working in the water for over 18 years now with babies and children.

Ilja

Hi! My name is Ilja, I’m 46 years old, a proud mom of two wonderful children – and recently, I became a grandmother, which fills me with joy!

Children have always been at the heart of my life. For many years, I’ve also opened my home as a foster parent, caring for kids from all walks of life. Their resilience, honesty, and energy continue to inspire me every single day.

I have a deep passion for working with children – helping them build trust, confidence, and strength, both in and around the water. That’s why Children of the Water feels like the perfect place for me. It’s where fun, safety, connection, and the power of water all come together.

I’m really looking forward to meeting you!