When you plan to introduce your baby to the water or even sign her/him up for swimming lessons there are few things you should know related to safety.
You can introduce your baby to the water whenever it feels like you and the baby are ready to take on this step, but also keep in mind that the baby’s belly button or circumcision (if it had such procedure) must be fully healed. Your pediatrician will help you with this issue. It is common knowledge that the sooner you introduce your baby to the water the more comfortable they will be later on.
It is no brainer that safety comes as number one thing when we talk about swimming. The AAP will recommend you to avoid swimming lessons if your child is younger than 1 year as there is no proof that that will reduce the risk of drowning. This doesn’t mean that you can’t do fun parent-child lessons and enjoy the water together. This will help your little one gets used to the water. Still, do not forget about safety while you have all that fun, because the risks are there. If the baby happens to swallow too much pool water it can lead to water poisoning. In some rare cases, if the child has trouble adjusting to the colder temperatures in the pool it could lead to hypothermia.
Here is what you should do.
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Introduce your baby to swimming
If you are using a public pool, it would be wise to go there as earlier as possible, because that is when it is less crowded. Also, the baby should be rested in the morning and ready to start learning. If it is an open pool the sun is less strong before 10 AM, so bear that in mind as well. Never forget to use sunblock for the baby and you as well.
Baby can sense your moods, therefore relax. If you show your baby that you are having a good time there is a huge chance that they will follow your lead. Don’t rush it, first dip your baby’s toes into the pool and let him/her get used to the sensation.
If your baby is liking the water drip some water on him/her, start with a little, and slowly increase the amount of water. When you finally get into the pool find a spot where it is easy for you to stand and hold the baby at the same time. Always be within arm’s reach.
Bring some toys from home and play some games with your baby, keep him/her entertained. You can try the motorboat game. See if the baby enjoys it, if it does you can slowly pick up the pace.
If the baby shows any signs of discomfort get him/her out of the pool. The first time in the pool should be a positive experience and if you force the whole thing you will do more harm than good. If it looks like the baby is not ready, try again in a month or so.
Start with the baby’s swimming lessons
If you think about signing your baby for swimming lessons wait after the baby turns 1 year. Some schools will teach 6 months old babies and older, but the APP will recommend you to start with swimming lessons after the baby turns 1 year. This is because there is no evidence that the lessons will be beneficial at such a young age and also the risk of swallowing too much water is greater.
After the baby becomes 1 year old it is up to the parents to decide if their baby is emotionally and physically capable to partake in such a project. Also, the parent should bear in mind that there are some health conditions related to pool water chemicals and infections. It’s been proven that lessons for babies older than a year can help prevent drowning.
So, what will the baby gain from swimming lessons?
Firstly, the baby will get used to the water, then there are the basic skills like blow bubbles, how to kick, pulling with the arms, and getting the face wet. After some time, the baby will dunk and hopefully, by the age of 3 or 4, they will start swimming.
Is it recommended for babies to wear lifejackets during the lessons?
During the lesson, the baby shouldn’t wear a lifejacket, because you want them to get used to the feeling of being in the water without any support. The vest will put the baby in a vertical position and that is not the natural swimming position.
Which swimming class is the best for a baby?
Look for smaller group lessons with up to ten pairs. Also, look for a place where the atmosphere is fun and relaxed and the price is reasonable. The instructors need to be nationally certified by an organization like the Red Cross.
Where to look for a good baby swimming program?
First, try the local parks and rec department and the Red Cross chapter. If you are looking for professional advice you need to check with the local community pool.
Safety precautions:
- You need to be aware of the drowning hazards around and in your home.
- You should have a four-sided pool fencing that separates the pool in your backyard from your house so kids can not use it without supervision.
- Never consume alcohol if you plan to go boating, swimming, or watch after kids that play in the water.
- When boating make sure that everyone is wearing a personal flotation device (even those who can swim, especially kids).
- Learning CPR is very important.
Conclusion
The sooner you get your baby to try the water, the more likely that baby will instinctively move their legs and arms in swimming motions. The older the baby gets, the more there will be to teach him/her. Float the child on its back with their head resting on your shoulder if you want to teach him/her kicking, you can manipulate the baby’s legs in a kicking motion as you move backward. If you want to teach them arm strokes, support the baby in a belly float and move the child through the water with some fun toy that is just out of reach.
