Swimming classes can be an exciting experience to share with your baby and with other parent-baby pairs. Classes don’t mean that your baby is old enough to learn anything. Until a child is over four years old, any swimming classes should be taken as just an enjoyable way to introduce your baby to the fun of being in the water.
As per the research, toddlers below age two shouldn’t be taken to the swimming pool because pools are easily contaminated with bacteria that can pose serious health problems for your baby like diarrhea.
This article talks about the following directions complying which you can take your baby experience the swimming pool:
Start in the bathtub
It’s an easy and flexible way to make your baby habitual to the water. Hop in there with him to form a safe and fun environment. To get your baby accustomed to the feeling of water on his head, fill a cup and gently pour it over his hair, allowing the cascade over his face too.
Time it right.
Start introducing your baby to the water as early as you feel comfortable, as long as your baby’s belly button or circumcision has healed. The younger the infant is when he begins, the more comfortable he’s likely to be in the pool. You can check with your pediatrician before you start, though.
Check the temperature
Babies can’t control their body temperature so 92 degrees F is perfect because it’s close to Baby’s natural body temperature. If the water in the pool is cooler, you can still take your baby in, but you’re required to get out every 10 minutes or so to warm up. Be attentive on your baby’s lip, finger and toe colour and if it turns purplish take the baby out of the pool.
Bond with Baby
Ensure that you should be with your baby always in the water holding him. Not only is it protected, carrying your baby skin-to-skin and interacting with him in the water will make your bond with your baby strengthen than ever before.
Say no to floaties
Water wings and other floatation devices provide an incorrect sense of security. In addition, they put the baby in a vertical position, but horizontal is considered best for swimming.
Take a stance
Once in the water, select a position that’s comfortable and gives a soothing effect to your baby. For example: You can hold your baby on his back which gives him support on the back of his head and buttocks. You can hold your baby under his armpits, either face-to-face or with the baby looking out. In any posture, move about the pool so the baby can feel the water sensation on his body. In a shallow water or a kiddie pool, you can hold under your baby’s armpits and crouch so you’re at his level.
Make it fun
While you’re in the water, you can keep your baby entertained by singing songs or playing games such as motorboat. Keep smiling and talking or singing in a soothing voice, particularly if your baby is unwilling to be in the water. Witnessing your smiling face will ensure him that this is a safe and fun environment.
Follow Baby’s lead
Some babies take to water quickly; others are more reluctant. It’s significant to follow your baby’s cues, and not push him to try anything for which he’s not prepared. If your baby starts crying or getting fussy, take him out to warm up, provide him something to eat, and allow him rest.
Conclusion
Make your baby experience swimming pool when your baby is over four years old. This will ensure the enjoyment of swimming which makes the pool a fun time experience. Don’t push or force your baby in the water, ensure that he should be ready for it and take precautions while you give him the sensation of water on his body.