WHY INTRODUCE YOUR BABY TO WATER AT AN EARLY AGE?
Swimming is an ‘experience dependent’ movement skills – meaning that it is not one they would acquire naturally or without some direct teaching and supervision.
Although the curriculum states that all children should be able to swim 25m unaided by the end of primary school, there is no data available to determine if this is achieved or not.
The reasons for children’s inability to swim safely are many and varied – including financial issues, fear of water, family interest and lack of facilities. We know that many children will never see or swim in a big pool and can remain uneasy and uncertain around water. By identifying and focusing on these early swimming experiences, we can promote a vital and life-saving skill.
Development
For nine months in the womb, babies are surrounded by amniotic fluid – a dark, comforting, warm, watery environment in which sounds and rhythms, tastes and touch are experienced in a safe and secure way. Some time after birth, they will experience their first bath or wash. Many of their early water experiences will include the rain, showers, the sea and playing with a garden hose.
From around six weeks old (not before), it is fine to introduce babies to pools. In the first three years, positive water experiences are critical and comfort, relaxation and confidence in the water must be a priority rather than the learning of specific strokes.
When children are completely safe, comfortable and confident in the water then different strokes can be introduced.
Physically
Water decreases the weight of an object, which is a lovely sensation for babies and children!
It gives them the freedom to move all their limbs at the same time however they like. These movements support overall strength and co-ordination.
Swimming also stimulates their heart and lung function as they learn to control breathing under different conditions.
Emotionally
Water is a natural therapeutic environment and the relaxing feeling of weightlessness is experienced.
Children are sharing an element with their adult who has their complete attention – eye contact is maintained and they can follow the child’s lead.
The sights, sounds and smells of the environment are all part of swimming and a shared experience by adult and child.
Swimming offers a unique opportunity for adults to really ‘tune in’ to the individual child and closely observe their different reactions.
Supporting children in swimming
Start by offering lots of different opportunities to play safely with and in water and to get used to the feel of water on the skin and face. Make sure these experiences are happy and positive, and be aware of personal preferences, which often vary widely.
Also, note that many sensory experiences are happening all at once when swimming, so be careful of sensory overload. They don’t need loads of extra toys to play with, but what they do need is time and space to explore safely and an adult caregiver who knows them well.
Encourage parents to swim with their children if appropriate and there are facilities available.
It is critical that all children are safe around water and, if possible, learn to swim with confidence when young. It is a good way to support their health as they grow.
How we may also benefit
You don’t have to be a brilliant swimmer to enjoy it – it is non-competitive and can be enjoyed individually or in a group.
Swimming supports overall physical health and avoids stress on bones and joints.
It can be meditative and relaxing – repetitive movements calm busy minds, so swimming is also good for maintaining sound mental health.
Why not try local aqua natal classes or baby class? Here are some locally:
Individuality Swim School – Based across Dorset
Aqua Babes – The Junction Leisure Centre (Broadstone)
Water babies – Based across Dorset
Puddle Ducks – Based across Dorset
BH Live – Based in Bournemouth and Poole
Why not try taking your baby to a local swimming pool, here are some in and around Poole:
The Junction based in Broadstone
Poole Dolphin
Littledown Leisure Centre
Rossmoor Leisure Centre
Pellhams Leisure Centre
BH Live Corfe Mullen