Baby swimming is a great activity for you and your baby and it's
easy and safe to do when you get the right advice. We understand
that you want your baby to be safe and happy in the pool - that's
why we worked with leading swimming associations such as the Institute of Sport
Recreation Management (ISRM) to develop the Baby-Friendly Approved Pool
Finder, which helps you find the perfect pool for baby swimming
near you.
- The best way to build confidence with your little one is by
splashing about in the bath at home. Make sure the water's about
32°C, with the room no more than 27°C. Cradle your baby in the bath
and gently wash water over his body.
"You may want to have your partner or a friend with you
when you first start practising in the bath, just whilst you get
used to handling a wet baby."
Philomena Geary, STA Baby Swimming Teacher
- Get used to being in the water together. Sit in the bath with
your knees up, and hold your baby facing you - or lay him back
against your legs and talk gently while you splash water on his
tummy. Try singing him a nursery rhyme.
- Start gently by turning your baby around so his head's on your
chest. Place your hands gently under her head and let her float
with his ears submerged. If he becomes distressed sit him back
upright and try again a little later. It's great preparation for
the pool.
- Babies have a strong sense of touch and love the feeling of
water. They'll react to their surroundings - your little one might
start kicking, smiling and moving his head. This is a good time to
introduce a bath toy for him to play with. Eventually, this should
come to the pool with you both to play with. Move him forwards and
backwards and in zigzags. Give him plenty of praise and cuddles and
he should soon be looking relaxed.
- Keep moving to give your baby different sensations and exercise
different muscles. Hold your baby whilst on his front with her arms
between your thumb and forefinger - his head will be naturally
supported this way. Gently sprinkle water on his tummy or back.
Just relax and enjoy the moment as he gets used to floating. You've
made a great start!
- It's exercise for you too. Swimming is low impact and ideal for
mums who should take it easy for the first six months following
birth.
