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Swimming with your baby creates many opportunities for bonding. From the initial dip when you're holding her close to the giggly grins when she's up in the air, a baby can experience new sensations all in the comfort of your arms. You will get to watch her reactions and experience her joy as she splashes, floats and kicks. Be prepared to get equally as wet; you're the person she'll be aiming for!
Ninety-four percent of children in households responding to a 2009 American Red Cross survey will be swimming during the summer, making swimming the most popular summertime activity among those questioned. As parents prepare for water fun, it’s a great time to evaluate your family’s level of comfort and confidence in and around the water and to take advantage of opportunities for you and your children to learn water safety and swimming skills. Not only can swimming lessons teach lifesaving skills -- drowning is the No. 2 cause of accidental death for children ages 1 to 19 in the United States,…
Swim schools for babies include those designed specifically for infants alone as well as swim schools that instruct all age groups. Baby swim lessons generally revolve around getting the child used to the water as well as to relax and wait for an adult should they fall into the water. Most classes include the parent in the water as well.
Newborn babies are vulnerable to illnesses and even the cleanest looking pools can be dangerous for infants. According to Dr. Howard Reinstein, a pediatrician and spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatrics, newborns younger than two months should not go in a pool because it may be contaminated with bacteria.
When you teach your baby to swim, you're helping him to develop a love of water while strengthening his muscles. Swimming is a complete exercise that will keep your child fit well into his adult years.
