Swimming for babies is recommended for babies from 6 months of age, because at 6 months the baby has had most of the vaccines, is more developed and ready for physical activity and also because before this age the ear inflammation is more frequent.
However, parents should go to the pediatrician for him to assess whether the baby can go to swimming classes, as he may have breathing or skin problems that can worsen with swimming.
In addition, it is important for parents to choose a pool that offers good conditions for changing and preparing the baby for classes and checking that the chlorine is at pH 7, neutral, and that the water is at the ideal temperature, which is between 27 and 29ºC.
The 7 good reasons to put the baby in swimming are:
- Improves baby's motor coordination; Stimulates appetite; Increases the emotional bond between parents and baby; Prevents some respiratory diseases; Helps baby to crawl, sit or walk more easily; Helps baby to sleep better; Helps with respiratory resistance and muscular baby.
In addition, the pool relaxes the baby, as the pool remembers when the baby was in the mother's belly.
The swimming lessons must be guided by a specialized teacher and by the parents and the first lesson should last about 10-15 minutes, then increase to 30 minutes. Classes should not last more than 30 minutes because the baby's temperature regulation system is not yet well developed and his attention span is still minimal.
Learn about other health benefits of swimming.
Tips for baby swimming lessons
In swimming for babies, it is recommended that the baby wear special diapers, which do not swell or leak into the water, facilitating movements, however, they are not mandatory. In addition, the baby should not be fed until 1 hour before swimming and should not go to swimming lessons when he is ill or has a cold.
The baby can dive in the pool with the presence of the teacher, but only after 1 month of swimming lessons and swimming goggles are only recommended after 3 years of age.
The use of earplugs can cause echo and frighten the baby, use with care.
It is normal for the baby to be scared in the first class. To help you, parents can play with the baby during the bath to get used to the water.
