«The river commands life»: Learning how to swim in a riverside village in the Amazon

Abstract

The authors describe the processes and meanings involved in learning how to swim among children who live next to the river in the Middle Amazon River region. The research investigates swimming techniques and what they mean for the construction of a person. The authors carried out an exploratory study with a qualitative approach and a case study design. Semi-structured interviews and participant observation techniques were used. Results show that children learn to swim through games in specific spaces near the river, especially during the rainy season. Developing their swimming techniques allows them to circulate autonomously in the community, develop their strength and participate in the world of fishing. The authors conclude that swimming is a skill that has very high relevance for children who live along the river and is fundamental for the formation of a person and the construction and affirmation of the territoriality of the group.