Seepferdchen Swimming Badge and Certificate

The 'Seepferdchen' (Seahorse) is the most iconic early swimming certification for children in Germany. It represents the first official milestone in a child's swimming education, documenting their transition from basic water familiarization to rudimentary swimming skills. To earn this badge, a child must typically jump from the edge of the pool, swim 25 meters, and retrieve an object from shoulder-deep water, while also demonstrating knowledge of basic pool safety rules.

The physical patches and certificates are produced by specialized textile and printing companies within Germany, such as Pimpertz, which is a major licensed manufacturer. These items are distributed through official channels including the DLRG (German Life Saving Society), the German Swimming Association (DSV), and local public baths like the 'Stadtbad Schwerte' shown in the image. While various companies manufacture the physical goods, the standards and the brand identity are collectively managed by the leading water safety organizations in Germany under a unified national testing regulation.