Why is baby swimming useful

Baby swimming is a favourite shared activity for parents and their little ones, though it can raise questions and doubts. Is it a good idea to take a small baby into shared water. Is baby swimming just for fun, or does it have a real benefit. Is it worth trying.

Your first thought might be that these sessions will help with learning to swim later on. But that is not the only purpose. Baby swimming also supports the development of movement, sensory processing and the central nervous system.

The very youngest do not find water unfamiliar, since they lived in it in the womb. Water has a calming effect and carries memories that feel safe.
When children spend a few years away from the water and later go to a pool or the seaside for the first time, they often react with fear. They quite naturally feel uncertain in that environment because they have not yet learnt to move in it. This is why baby swimming, and later lessons for toddlers and older children, can help prevent the development of fear.

Joy for little ones and parents alike

These sessions create family moments where the child and parents can be part of a group. This is especially uplifting for mums, who get a change from everyday tasks in a very different setting. Water helps both baby and mum relax while they actively take part in the activities and games. Their bond grows even closer, and they make memories for life. Communication between them strengthens as the child starts to learn with intent in the water, supported by the parent’s careful attention.

When is it worth starting baby swimming 

A baby just a few weeks old with a well healed umbilicus can already take part. Most start around 2 months, and it is worth waiting until they reach about 5 kg. The earlier the better, while water still feels completely natural for the child.

Baby swimming sessions are usually grouped by age and ability. Correct movements can be introduced very early, laying a strong foundation for swimming skills later. Techniques can be adjusted in good time, and posture issues can also be helped through moving in water.

What effect does baby swimming have on babies 

Children are ready to start formal swim learning around age 4. In babyhood, moving in water brings health, emotional and relational benefits that can have a real impact on development:

• lung performance increases

• breathing muscles strengthen

• overall muscle strength grows

• limb coordination improves and movements become more harmonious

• posture problems may be prevented

• circulation is stimulated and the heart’s blood supply is supported

• immune defences are strengthened

• social skills, communication and confidence develop

• conscious learning improves while reflex reactions take more of a back seat

• it can help a great deal in cases of developmental differences

• it can have a therapeutic effect after a difficult birth

In early development, gravity on land limits how babies can move compared with the water. The pool gives them opportunities to progress. With regular sessions, water becomes a natural place for them, and moving in it remains familiar later on. Motor development in water can be remarkably strong.

How does a baby swimming class work

Typically one parent takes part with the child. Baby swimming is available in many places. Session length varies, as do the programmes, activities and games. There is usually a warm up, play, songs and some free time. Some teachers approach it more as early swim technique, and babies may go under water from a young age. Along the way they learn suitable breathing, head position and technique, and can use these skills.

Parents are learning too. They are taught the right holds to keep their child safe. Instructors demonstrate first because parents are often nervous at the beginning.

What do we need for baby swimming 

Check with your chosen venue about what to bring each time.
In general your child will need a swim nappy. This can be disposable or reusable. If you want a more eco conscious and economical option, choose reusable, since you will use it often. The most secure fit is a style with snug elastication at the waist and thighs.

Instead of a towel, a small poncho towel or bathrobe is often easier at the pool. The accompanying adult should bring swimwear, flip flops and a towel.

It is a good idea to feed your baby shortly before the session, as they will get hungry faster than you might expect while moving. They will enjoy the water more if they are not hungry. Also plan for the fact that they will be ready for milk, formula or baby food soon after swimming.

Baby under water 

Some parents feel uneasy about their child being put under water in a baby swimming class. There is a belief that babies are suddenly dunked or forced to submerge. That approach would not be right.

Getting used to going under water must always be a carefully structured process led by a trained professional. The younger the baby, the earlier they may be able to go under, but even for the very youngest it takes several sessions, often 3 to 4, to prepare. Methods differ for each age.

With the very youngest, the diving reflex can be used. This inborn reflex can be triggered up to about 5 to 6 months. When babies feel water on the face, they immediately close the airway, shut the mouth and blow air out through the nose.

This can happen even when a small stream of water runs down the face. At first, tiny sprinklings and an ‘imitated submersion’ are used. Over time the baby waits for the water with a calm expression. This is how gradual introduction to submersion begins.

For those over one year old, it can take 10 to 15 sessions to go under confidently. By then they have their own will, thoughts and fears.

What matters most for parents to know is that a child never has to go under water. Respect for a baby’s attraction to or dislike of water is fundamental in any programme. Parents may also be hesitant, sometimes due to their own fears, and can ask that their child is not submerged and water is not poured on the face. Often that concern fades when they see how much other babies enjoy dipping under and how relaxed they become.

What safety standards should we look for 

People and qualifications 

Choose a venue where you can verify that the instructor is suitably qualified. Do not be shy about asking.

Environment and operations 

• Properly disinfected water is essential, since babies will inevitably swallow some.

• A suitable water temperature is ideal, typically 32 to 34 °C, because babies’ thermoregulation is immature and they are more at risk of getting cold.

• Pool chemicals should not irritate the skin or the lungs. Disinfection can also be done with systems such as oxygen based or UV treatment.

• Only use pools that are licensed for baby sessions and meet the required health standards.

Supporting your baby’s sense of security 

Parents should always stay within easy reach of their child and follow the baby’s natural rhythm. Nothing should be forced. Everything should feel enjoyable and pleasant for them.

Children who attend baby swimming will not automatically be stronger swimmers later 

It would be a mistake to think that baby swimming alone equips a child with reliable swimming skills in the future. The path is longer and involves further lessons in nursery and school years, plus appropriate routine, theoretical knowledge and practice. Formal lessons still need to start at the right developmental stage.

If you want to help your child enjoy water and build sound movement patterns, you can guide them step by step over the years towards confident swimming.

Sources:

Swim England — Baby swimming checklist for parents and carers. Notes recommended pool temperatures for babies and practical safety points such as double nappying.

Healthline — Infant Swimming: Benefits, Risks, and Safety Tips