How to prepare your baby for swimming
Giving your baby water confidence is one of the most important ways you can help to prepare them to enjoy swimming and be safe in the water for life.
Having spent the first nine months of their lives suspended in fluid in the womb, they generally love the liberating sensation of floating freely, as it's such a familiar environment. But, just to make sure their first experience is an entirely happy one, here are some tips for preparing them for that all important first visit to the pool.
'We all love bathing our babies; and having fun in water starts with bathtime.' explained Jon Wright, of the UK's largest baby swimming company, Water Babies. 'First and foremost – keep it fun. Sharing a bath with your baby is a great bonding experience and something everyone can do.
Of course, you don't always have to get into the tub. In a shallow baby bath, lie them on the bottom in shallow water, and as they get older, lie them on their front,
keeping their face out of the water. If your bath is deep enough, encourage your baby to start kicking by letting them float on their backs in the water, supporting just their head. Babies love this sensation as it's a freedom that they can't experience on land; so let them explore water's natural buoyancy.
On your first visit to the pool, make sure your baby has a gentle introduction to this multi-sensory world. Spend time on the side getting them used to the noises, colours and splashing. Check the pool temperature – it should be at least 30. When you get in the water for the first time, smile and talk to your baby, show them that it's all meant to be fun. It's really important that you are calm and positive as they'll take their cues from you.
Babies tire easily in the water, so restrict your first visit to around 20-30 minutes and make sure you have a hat and towel for afterwards. It's normal for them to be hungry and tired after swimming, and not unusual for them to sleep for a couple of hours as well – definitely an added bonus to a successful trip.'
Jon and Cathy Wright run Water Babies classes in Lichfield, Sutton Coldfield and Tamworth. For further information, call 01283 814 766 or look at the website: www.waterbabies.co.uk.
