With summer just around the corner there no better way to spend time together with your family, than taking a dip in the local pool.
There are many things to consider when taking a baby or a toddler swimming for the first time. Teaching a baby to swim must start in the bathtub. It is an easy t your way to get your baby accustomed to the water. To create a fun environment hop in there with him. To get him used to the feeling of water on his head, fill a cup and pour it gently over his head, letting it cascade over his face.
Temperature of the swimming pool is one of the important things. Any swimming pool you choose should be heated to over 30° C, be clean and well managed. If the water at the pool is cooler, you can take your baby in, but you may need to get out every ten minutes or so to warm up. Or you can use a neoprene wrap that acts as a little wet suit.
At the swimming pool you should have double nappy system. The nappy and overall nappy must be a good fit around the waist and the legs, because if the nappy leaks into a swimming pool, the pool has to be closed for several hours.
After getting in the pool, move your baby around, sing to them, talk to them and bond with them. Have fun and be positive and your child will take their cues from you. First swimming session should last 20-30 minutes, probably your baby will let you know when they had enough.
After swimming dress your baby. Always bring hat with you because babies lose heat through their heads very quickly. Than feed him. Babies get hungry and tired after swimming, so they may eat and sleep more.
It is important to bath your baby after swimming, and again when you get home. Many babies suffer from childhood eczema. There are barrier creams, but these can make baby extremely slippery. Another solution is to slip your baby in a UV sunsuit and your baby will be much easier to hold in the water. If you find that your baby gets a skin reaction after swimming then wait a while, than try again.
Benefits of swimming for your baby and toddler
Swimming it’s great for babies and toddlers physical and mental health. Swimming from birth could spark a lifetime’s interest in sport. Each lesson of swimming provides a complete physical workout, strengthening your baby’s heart and lungs.
Children who attend regular swimming lessons will gain a respect for water and awareness water safety. Children who regularly swim are less likely to panic in the water giving them a better chance in the event of an accident.
Introducing children to water at a very young age prevent developing a fear of water later in life. Exercises that involve moving independently in water and holding on to the side are wonderful for your baby’s confidence.
Swimming develops baby’s learning skills. Responding to voice commands can sharpen baby’s mental skills and increase their levels of understanding. Swimming also promote language development.
Children who undertake physical exercise will sleep better.
