Introducing them to water can be an excellent experience for your child. But, once they are in the water, where do you go? What activities can you do together that they will enjoy and which are easy to teach? What are the benefits? We will discuss how you can help your child become more comfortable in the water environment. In this series, we will also discuss what activities each age group can do to ensure a safe learning experience.
0-12 MONTHS
One of my most frequently asked questions is, “When can I take my baby swimming?” Previously, parents were advised to wait until their baby had had all their immunizations at six months and four months. Health experts don’t believe that this is necessary. It’s up to you to decide when your baby can go swimming. As a mother, the sooner you feel confident, the better. The pool environment can be intimidating for your baby due to the noise level. You may only be able to swim with your child once you have your six-week check-up. Water temperature is another critical consideration. Babies cannot regulate their body temperature, so it is recommended that babies under three months of age and weighing less than 12 lbs swim in water at 32 degrees. Children older and heavier should swim in water 30 degrees or higher. If your child is too cold, you can tell how their lips and fingernails turn blue. What do I need?
- You have chosen a pool suitable for your child and are eager to get them in the water. But what equipment do you need? We always recommend a swimming napkin. They come in many designs and colors and can be found on the swim website. One of my favorites is the tutti frutti smile nappy due to its fun design. A swimsuit is also essential to keep your child warm when they are in the water. These add warmth and come in many formats. The Splash All-in-One UV Swimsuit in Red will give you an idea about what to look out for when looking for baby swimwear. Children under one year old should not wear armbands or water wings as they are unsafe. Here are some other things to keep in mind: If you are bottle-feeding, a warm bottle to keep you warm afterward
- A towel with a hood or a well-fitting dressing gown.
- Take-out snack: Babies get hungry while swimming (just like adults!)
- You can give your baby bath toys to enjoy.
PREPARE YOUR BABY TO USE THE WATER
- Everything is purchased, and you’ve set a date to swim with your child. To prepare your child for the water environment, there are some activities you can do together before they go to the pool. Here are some activities you can do with your child during bath time.Name, ready, go (NRG), a fun activity that I have used for years to help my children feel more confident about water being poured over their heads. You can hold your child’s attention with a cup or watering container. Next, you will start pouring water onto their heads. You can start by putting water on their backs. Then, use your hand to prevent the water from getting in their eyes. As they gain confidence, you can let more water trickle down their faces (NRG will be a crucial part of the process).
- Splash, splash and splash – While this activity can be messy during bath time, it can be very beneficial for your baby’s swimming development. Encourage your child to splash in the water. This will help them develop a sense of safety and a love for it.
- Make bath time enjoyable. Your child should see the water as stimulating and exciting.
ACTIVITIES AT THE POOL
- You are now at the swimming pool. The water temperature is perfect, all the equipment is there, and your little one has been enjoying the bath. What activities can you do together while you’re in the pool?NRG – You have been practicing this a lot so that when your child hears the commands, they can anticipate what to expect. You can use a watering bottle or your hands to trickle water onto your child’s head and face.
- Supported Back Float: In shallow water, support your child’s head and gently press their cheek against yours. After this is complete, move slowly around the pool. If your child becomes upset, stop the activity immediately and come back later. Make sure to talk all the way around as your baby will appreciate the soothing sound of your voice.
- Motor Boat – This can be done with or without a floating float. You will slowly lift your child from the water by holding them under your arms. You will zoom them around the pool faster, as if they were in a motorboat. Once they get used to the activity, you can make it more challenging by having them hold their legs facing you and doing the same thing but with a kick motion. Eventually, your child can do this every time you play this game.
- KEEP IT FUN! Ensure that you have fun with everything.
You can do many other activities with your child, but these will get them started on their swimming journey.
Parents should increase the time their child spends in the water. I recommend starting with 10 minutes and gradually increasing to 30 minutes. If your child begins to shiver, I recommend that you take them out of water and wrap them in warm clothing. You have completed your first swimming lesson with your baby. This is the first part of my series about introducing your child to swimming. Make sure to sign up for my blog to re-visit the site for more information on activities you can do with your baby to teach them how to swim.
