We are delighted to announce the
7th International ABA Conference, taking place from 16–18 April 2027 in Emmersdorf an der Donau, Austria.
This professional development conference is designed for everyone working with babies and young children in the water who wishes to expand their theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Together, we are shaping a future in which babies and young children experience the water safely, respectfully, and with joy.
The conference will be held at the Eventresort Wachau – Schloss Luberegg, a unique venue nestled in the breathtaking landscape of the Wachau Valley. Combining Baroque elegance with modern comfort, the castle offers stylish suites with a historic ambiance and magnificent views of the River Danube.
Look forward to an inspiring programme featuring renowned national and international speakers. The carefully selected topics will provide valuable insights, current research, and practical ideas to support your daily work with babies and young children in the aquatic environment. We translate all presentations in english and german!
Our social programme offers plenty of opportunities for networking and personal exchange. On Friday evening, we will gather for a traditional Austrian dinner at the wine tavern “Die Schlosserei.” On Saturday evening, we warmly invite all participants to our festive Gala Dinner at Schloss Luberegg, where we will enjoy a relaxed and memorable evening together. Accompanying guests are also warmly welcome to attend for an additional fee.
As in previous years, exhibitors will have the opportunity to present and sell their products, educational materials, and services throughout the conference.
The detailed conference programme will be published in due course on our website:
We are already looking forward to welcoming you to the 7th International ABA Conference and to sharing inspiring days filled with professional exchange, new perspectives, and meaningful encounters.
The official opening of the 7th International ABA Conference will take place on Friday at 3:30 p.m. Registration will be possible from 1.30 until 3.30pm.
In the evening, participants are warmly invited to a traditional Austrian dinner at the wine tavern “Die Schlosserei”, located directly next to the conference hotel.
Before the Gala Dinner on Saturday evening, participants will have the opportunity to visit the magnificent Melk Abbey, one of Austria’s most famous Baroque landmarks. A short bus transfer will be provided for this excursion.
Throughout the three conference days – Friday, Saturday, and Sunday – participants can look forward to engaging presentations by speakers from various countries. Each presentation will include 45 minutes of lecture time followed by 15 minutes for questions and discussion.
All presentations will be delivered in either German or English and will be professionally interpreted into the respective other language.
We look forward to inspiring professional discussions and personal networking during the conference breaks, at the traditional Austrian Evening on Friday, and at the festive Gala Dinner with live musical entertainment on Saturday evening.
The conference will conclude on Sunday at 1:00 p.m. Participants are warmly invited to stay for a joint lunch following the closing of the conference.
photo © Stift Melk, Franz Gleiss
For your registration for the ABA-Conference on April 4- 6th 2025 in Mondsee, please send an email to renate@austrianbabyswim.at. Registration deadline is March 5th 2025.
Once your written registration has been received, you will receive a confirmation of booking. As the number of participants is limited, places will be allocated according to the date of payment received. Your conference place is confirmed only upon receipt of payment.
The cancellation for the participation will be charged with €80 until March 1st 2027. After this date the full amount of the fee will be retained except the participant designates a replacement participant. Registration deadline: 5 March 2027
Please include the following details with your registration:
Invoice recipient (association, company, or private individual)
Street address/Postal code/City/Country
E-mail address
Dietary requirements (e.g. vegetarian, vegan, food allergies, or other dietary needs)
CONFERENCE FEE
Early Bird Rate (until 31 October 2026) € 615€
Standard Conference Fee (from 1 November 2026) € 685€
From the 5th registered participant from the same organisation onwards, the member rate will apply €575/645).
(The seminar fee includes refreshments served during the seminar and coffee breaks, dinner on Friday, lunch on Saturday and Sunday, an aperitif, and the Gala Dinner on Saturday evening. Water is included with lunch. During dinner on Friday and Saturday, the provided beverages and beer are included. Any additional beverages ordered will be charged to the participants.)
CONFERENCE HOTEL
Schloss Luberegg – Eventresort Wachau
Luberegg 18
3644 Emmersdorf an der Donau
T: +43 2752 72 572
anfrage@luberegg.at
https://www.luberegg.at
Please note that accommodation at the conference hotel must be booked directly by each participant. A variety of other accommodation options are also available in the immediate vicinity of the conference venue.
BANK DETAILS
Österreichischer Babyschwimmverband (Austrian Babyswim Association)
IBAN AT29 2011 1288 2828 4600
BIC GIBAATWWXXX
Payment Reference: ABA Conference 2027 First name Last name
The Wachau – A Region to Discover
Stretching along the Danube between Melk and Krems, the Wachau is one of Austria’s most beautiful and distinctive cultural landscapes. Here, breathtaking nature, centuries of history and Austrian way of life come together in a truly unique setting.
Steep vineyards, picturesque historic villages, medieval ruins, monasteries and magnificent buildings shape the landscape. The famous Wachau vineyards rise along the hillsides of the Danube, giving the region its unmistakable character.
The Wachau has a long and fascinating history. Melk Abbey, the medieval town of Dürnstein and the many historic villages along the river reflect the importance of the region as a meeting point between different cultures and parts of Europe over the centuries. Today, the Wachau is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Yet the Wachau is about much more than history and culture. Cycling and hiking trails lead along the Danube and through the vineyards, charming villages invite visitors to slow down and explore, while regional cuisine and the region’s renowned wine culture make the Wachau a special culinary destination as well.
This unique combination makes the Wachau a wonderful setting for the ABA Conference – an inspiring place for exchange, connection and shared experiences.
We want to offer our participants not only an inspiring and engaging conference, but also the opportunity to discover and experience one of Austria’s most remarkable regions.
Welcome to the Wachau – where the Danube, culture, nature and connection come together.
photo: je_donau_dji_0132
A Special Afternoon at Melk Abbey
On Saturday afternoon, a very special experience awaits us as part of the ABA Conference: a visit to Melk Abbey, one of the most iconic landmarks of the Wachau and one of Europe’s most remarkable Baroque ensembles.
Perched high above the Danube, the Benedictine abbey captivates visitors with its magnificent architecture, richly decorated rooms and world-famous library. With more than 900 years of history, Melk Abbey is a fascinating testament to Austrian culture and European intellectual and cultural heritage.
After an inspiring day filled with engaging presentations, professional exchange and many personal encounters, we will have the opportunity to discover this extraordinary place together – and to experience the unique atmosphere of the Wachau.
It is not simply about visiting an impressive historic monument. It is also about spending time together, continuing conversations and enjoying a special experience beyond the conference programme.
Because an international conference is not only about knowledge and professional exchange. It is also about the connections we make, the conversations we share and the experiences that bring us together.
We look forward to welcoming our participants and international guests to this very special afternoon at Melk Abbey – and to sharing a unique piece of Austrian culture and history with you.
ABA Conference 2027 – Knowledge connects. Encounters remain.
photo: ML_StiftMelk_1271_PRESSE
A Taste of the Wachau 🍷
A conference is not only about inspiring ideas, new perspectives and meaningful conversations – it is also about enjoying good food together!
And the Wachau is the perfect place for that.
The region is known for its excellent local cuisine, traditional specialities and, of course, its outstanding wines. From hearty Austrian classics to regional dishes made with fresh, local ingredients, food is an important part of the Wachau experience.
During the ABA Conference, we will have several opportunities to discover the culinary side of the region – whether at a traditional Heuriger, enjoying a relaxed dinner together, or discovering some of the specialities Austria is famous for.
For us, sharing a meal is much more than simply taking a break from the programme. It is where conversations continue, new friendships begin and the day is often remembered a little longer.
So, come for the knowledge, stay for the connections…
and definitely stay for the food! 😉
We look forward to sharing not only ideas and experiences with you, but also a taste of Austria and the wonderful culinary traditions of the Wachau.
photo: Mörwald Relais & Châteaux Restaurant "Zur Traube"
The Brain Loves Water
How varied movement experiences support brain development in baby and toddler swimming
Water offers babies and toddlers a unique environment for movement and exploration. It allows them to experience movement in ways that are not possible on land, while providing a rich variety of sensory and motor input to the developing brain.
This presentation combines current findings from neuroscience and movement science with practical experience in baby and toddler swimming. It explores how movement experiences in the water can support children’s development and how these insights can be translated into everyday teaching practice.
The presentation will address questions such as:
Why is water a unique developmental environment for babies?
What role do the vestibular, proprioceptive and tactile systems play in early development?
How do varied movement experiences influence brain development and neuroplasticity?
Why are diverse movement and sensory experiences important for the developing child?
And what are the practical implications for modern, developmentally appropriate swimming instruction?
The aim of the presentation is to make current scientific findings accessible and relevant to everyday practice, while providing participants with practical ideas and inspiration that they can take directly into their own teaching.
About the Speaker
Dr. DANIELA DE TOIA holds a degree in Sports Science and has been working as an international presenter and educator in the fields of aqua fitness, baby swimming and toddler swimming for more than 25 years.
Her particular focus is on bridging scientific knowledge and practical teaching. She is passionate about exploring how movement and varied sensory experiences can support children’s development and how this knowledge can be meaningfully integrated into swimming education.
Supporting Neurodivergent Children in the Water
Safety, Co-Regulation and Trust in Autism, ADHD, Sensory Sensitivity and Beyond
Water is a unique sensory environment. It engages the whole body and changes orientation, balance, proximity, sound and temperature. As a result, it can be both regulating and challenging for children.
This presentation explores what neurodivergent children need in order to develop a sense of safety, orientation and trust in the water. Neurodiversity-sensitive approaches are combined with practical experience from swimming education and work with children and families.
The presentation addresses questions such as:
• How might children with autism, ADHD, ADD or heightened sensory sensitivity experience the aquatic environment?
• Why can challenging behaviour be an expression of overwhelm, insecurity or a lack of orientation?
• What role do co-regulation, clear structure, sensory awareness, choice and trust play?
• How can instructors support children individually without prematurely judging their behaviour or creating additional pressure?
• What role do parents play as important co-regulation partners, and how can instructors involve and empower them in a sensitive way?
• How can supportive tools, such as the burgilino Water Cradle, provide security, containment, closeness and a sense of stability in the water?
The aim of the presentation is to broaden our understanding of the individual needs of neurodivergent children and to provide practical impulses for creating safe, attachment-oriented and neurodiversity-sensitive water familiarisation and swimming sessions.
About the Speaker
BURGI REISNER lives in Wels, Austria, and is the mother of two adult “water lovers”. She is a swimming instructor with around 20 years of professional experience and a qualified social pedagogue. She works in child and youth welfare, supporting babies, children and families in the aquatic environment.
Her particular professional focus lies in combining swimming education and social pedagogy with a strong awareness of safety, trust, attachment and child development. Supporting neurodivergent children and their families is an important part of her practical work.
Drawing on her many years of experience, she developed the burgilino Water Cradle, a multifunctional swimming and support tool for babies and young children designed to facilitate gentle water familiarisation while providing support, containment and closeness in the water.
Good Hearing – Even in the Water
What Parents and Everyone Working with or Supporting Children in the Water Should Know About Ears, Hearing and Hearing Aids
The ear is a sensitive sensory organ and plays a particularly important role in the aquatic environment. Changes in pressure, water in the ear canal, infections and different acoustic conditions can affect both hearing and the well-being of babies and children.
More and more children with hearing aids or cochlear implants are taking part in swimming classes. This raises many practical questions for parents and everyone working with or supporting children in the water: What is possible in the water? What needs to be considered? And how can children with hearing loss be safely and naturally included in swimming activities?
The presentation will address questions such as:
• What happens to our ears when we enter the water or dive?
• What particular considerations apply to babies and young children?
• What should everyone working with children in the water know about the ear canal, eardrum, middle ear and pressure equalisation?
• What needs to be considered when children wear hearing aids or cochlear implants in and around water?
• What options are available to enable children with hearing loss to participate safely and actively in swimming classes?
• What should parents and those supporting children in the water be aware of? When is medical assessment advisable, and what supportive tools are available?
The presentation provides an introduction to the ear and hearing and offers practical guidance for working with children with and without hearing devices in the aquatic environment. The aim is to reduce uncertainty and help everyone supporting children in the water to communicate confidently with parents and to accompany children with different hearing needs safely and naturally.
About the Speaker
HERWIG FALZEDER is a hearing care audiologist and has been working with hearing, hearing loss and modern hearing devices for more than 25 years.
In his presentation, he combines his professional expertise in hearing care with the specific context of baby and child swimming. The focus is not primarily on the technology of hearing devices, but on what parents and everyone working with or supporting children in the water should know and consider in everyday practice.
His aim is to explain the relevant connections in an accessible way, reduce uncertainty and promote a safe and confident approach to hearing and hearing devices in the aquatic environment.
𝗦𝗘𝗘, 𝗦𝗘𝗡𝗦𝗘, 𝗙𝗘𝗘𝗟, 𝗙𝗢𝗟𝗟𝗢𝗪
Somatic Swim Parenting: A More Connected Way to Support Babies in Water
What if we looked at baby swimming not only from the perspective of what a baby can do in the water, but also from the perspective of what the baby is experiencing?
In this practical and reflective session, Jo Wilson introduces See, Sense, Feel, Follow – a somatic approach that invites parents and swimming professionals to become more aware of the baby’s experience while also noticing their own body, presence and nervous system.
The session explores sensory tools such as voice, flow movements, water touch and eye gaze, and considers how these can support connection and co-regulation in the water.
Among other questions, the session explores:
• What might the baby be seeing, sensing and feeling in this moment?
• How can parents become more aware of their own breath, touch, movement, voice and nervous system?
• What changes when we respond to the baby rather than automatically following a lesson plan?
• How can responsive holds, movement and sensory transitions support co-regulation?
• How can parents give babies more opportunities to become active participants in their own aquatic experiences?
The session combines reflection with practical ideas that can be taken directly into the pool. It invites us to slow down, become curious and recognise the baby as an active participant rather than simply a recipient of instruction.
𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗿
JO WILSON is the founder of Aqua Sensory, an international aquatic educator, Developmental Play Practitioner and pioneer of sensory-aware, nurture-led baby swimming.
For more than a decade, Jo has challenged traditional skills-first approaches to early swimming, encouraging teachers and parents to look beyond what a baby can do in the water and become curious about what they can see, sense and feel.
Her work brings together child development, sensory integration, co-regulation, developmental movement and parent–baby connection, translating these ideas into practical approaches for the pool.
Jo is also the founder of Bath Babies and co-owner of two family swim centres in the UK, where her ideas are developed and explored in everyday practice with babies, children, parents and swimming teachers.
Through Aqua Sensory, Jo teaches and mentors aquatic professionals internationally, advocating for greater sensory awareness in baby swimming.
Her latest work, Somatic Swim Parenting, turns the focus towards the parent – helping adults become more aware of their own breath, touch, movement, voice and nervous system so they can better co-regulate and respond to their baby.
At the heart of Jo’s work is a simple belief:
𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗽𝗼𝗼𝗹 𝗶𝘀 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝗻 𝗮 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝘄𝗶𝗺.
