Swimming is often the first guided activity introduced to a baby just a few months after birth. Newborns instinctively know how to swim and are not afraid of water, having spent approximately nine months in their mother's amniotic fluid. However, if young children are not exposed to water early on, they can develop a fear of it.
To help them enjoy the many benefits of swimming, it’s important to introduce them to it at a young age, while taking proper precautions. In this exclusive article, we’ll explore more about swimming for babies.
Differences between Baby Swimming and Learning to Swim
Firstly, it is essential to understand that a baby swimming session will not teach your child how to swim. There is indeed a difference between the concept of baby swimming and actually learning to swim.
A baby swimming session is an introduction to water that helps the baby feel comfortable in the aquatic environment and not fear splashes. It also preserves the aquatic bond that newborns are so fond of. This activity promotes the child's overall development and allows parents to enjoy special and playful moments with their offspring. The session helps the baby become familiar with water. In fact, some pools prefer the term "baby in water" over "baby swimming".
On the other hand, learning to swim helps a child overcome their fear of water. It also teaches them to hold their breath underwater, float, and propel themselves in the water. Finally, during swimming lessons, the child learns the movements of different strokes.
At What Age and How Do Sessions Take Place?
Typically in the U.S., swim schools typically begin training infants between 3 and 6 months old, once they’ve received their recommended vaccinations, such as the DTaP (diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis). Before this age, newborns are more vulnerable to infections, and parents, especially mothers, may need more time to feel ready to join their baby in the water.
It’s important to note that swimming sessions can introduce exposure to germs, so proper hygiene is key. Baby swim sessions usually last between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the child’s age and the type of activities involved.
Select Activities Based on Baby's Age
When your baby is between 4 months and 1 year, you can teach them to maintain their balance in the water with the help of a mat and in the presence of their parents. They can also dive naturally while practicing breath-holding. Around one year old, the sessions generally focus on games. In a playful environment, the child can overcome their fears and jump into the water.
Between 15 and 18 months, the baby can sharpen their balance using rescue floats. At 2 years old, they can dive underwater while enjoying slides and tunnels. By around 3 to 4 years old, your child can learn to swim and move through a few strokes while keeping their head above water.
Finally, when the little one is between 5 and 6 years old, they learn the basics of swimming:
- Â Â Â Â Coordinated movement;
- Â Â Â Â Proper techniques;
- Â Â Â Â Breathing underwater, etc.
They are finally ready to swim in the water like a seasoned swimmer.
Choose the Right Equipment Based on Baby's Age
Before introducing your baby to the joy of swimming, it’s crucial to have a few swimming accessories. You should get a swimsuit for your baby, a swim cap, and a towel.
In addition, from 3 months onwards, you can equip them with a baby swimmer float. This equipment allows them to stay afloat and minimizes the risk of drowning. From 2 years old, the baby can wear a float to adopt a lying position during swimming sessions.
The floating swimsuit is also part of the gear your child will need during swimming. It ensures the safety of children over 2 years, protects them from the sun's rays, and provides them with lots of room to maneuver while swimming.
The Benefits of a Swimming Session for Babies
Swimming sessions offer innumerable benefits for young children. Firstly, swimming enhances their motor skills and stimulates their senses. This is why a baby swimming session provides a complete sensory experience through:
- Â Â Â Â The temperature of the water and the room;
- Â Â Â Â Ambient noises;
- Â Â Â Â Water contact on the baby's skin;
- Â Â Â Â The lights;
- Â Â Â Â The reflections of water, etc.
Furthermore, the activity brings both the child and parents closer. As the baby progresses, parents praise them and encourage them to improve. This helps the baby learn to surpass themselves in a loving environment, ultimately boosting self-esteem. Swimming sessions are also excellent for children with disabilities.
Precautions and Contraindications
To ensure that your baby enjoys the benefits of water safely, it is essential to take certain precautions. You should also be aware of any contraindications for your little one's wellbeing.
During the first session, it is recommended to be gentle when introducing them to water. Additionally, if your baby is reluctant, never force them to enter the water. They progress at their own pace during sessions led by the instructor.
Before taking your child to their first session, we suggest equipping them with gear appropriate for their age to ensure their safety. Also, before the session, give your baby something to drink to avoid regurgitating if they swallow water. Bring a waterproof diaper and some small doses of saline solution for your little one's eyes. Finally, prepare a small snack for the end of the session, as swimming can work up an appetite.
In terms of contraindications, the pool is not recommended for unvaccinated children. This is why it is advised to wait until they are 4 months old before enrolling them in a pool course. Additionally, it is strongly recommended not to swim with a baby who has lesions or a contagious infection.
You should avoid the pool if your child has a cough, fever, or ear infection. If your baby has respiratory or cardiovascular issues, it's better to ask their doctor's opinion as well as that of the instructors before participating in this activity.
