Water Babies swim classes are based all over Scotland with lots of classes in Dundee and Edinburgh. There are so many benefits associated with taking your baby swimming and the positive affects aren't just for baby! Spending 30 minutes each week in a friendly environment with like minded people can help you feel connected and supported and adding in that skin-to-skin contact with your baby makes it even better. All those cuddles, smiles and singing is the best environment for a baby and their grown-ups and helps to promote bonding. Learning through purposeful play, we teach those vital safety skills
right from the start allowing them to grow in confidence and learn what it means to be safe around water.
The benefits of Baby Swimming include;
Spending time with other parents which helps you feel less isolated and more connected. Lots of our swimming pools have a cafe close by where parents can get together after class.
Being in the water helps your baby move independently before they can crawl or walk. It’s a safe place for them to explore their balance, meaning they’ll become a lot more coordinated out of the water too – so less bumps as they learn to stand on their own two feet!
Activities like chasing toys (or grasping hold of them to give them a good ole’ chew) in the pool help with those finer motor skills; those smaller movements that occur in the wrists, hands, fingers, feet and toes.
Research has indicated that baby swimming results in increased social, academic and personality development.
The focused time in the water strengthens the bond between you and your baby, through holding them close and that skin-to-skin contact in the comforting warmth of the water. Your baby can smell you, feel your heartbeat, hear your breathing, which all helps calm and relax them (and you). This stimulation all reminds them of the security and safety of the womb. The warmth of the water is the perfect place to connect with your baby, away from the bustle of daily life. And, it’s also a place for you to have fun too.
People often have lots of questions when they call us. Our top 5 most common questions are;
1. When can my baby start swimming?
If the pool is warm enough, they can start from birth. As babies can’t regulate their own body
temperature as well as adults, we need to make sure they are safe. If it’s below 34 degrees then you should wait until they’re around 12 weeks old when they can swim in a pool above 30 degrees, but they may need a wetsuit as an extra layer to keep them cozy.
2. Do they need their vaccinations first?
No, so you can start as soon as you feel ready! The latest NHS guidance can be found here
3. Is it OK that I have a fear of water, or can’t swim?
Yes! Lots of people come to our classes as they want to make sure that their wee one doesn’t grow up with a fear like they did. Rest assured that our supportive and understanding teachers are there for you, every step of the way. We will never ask you to do anything you are uncomfortable with.
4. What if my baby doesn’t like it?
So long as they are not cold, hungry or tired then it’s very rare that they don’t like being with you in the pool. However, if they are unsettled by the environment then we will work with you to reach the right outcome for you best. This could be a different time, venue, day or even a wee break before trying again later. Our teachers are very experienced and will be able to guide you on what to do.
5. Can I do anything to get started at home?
Make bath-time fun, and wet! Don’t be afraid to get their faces wet when you give them a wash, with lots of positives “ooohs” and “ahhhs” and smiley faces. Get in the bath with them, skin to skin is the best way to comfort your baby. You will quickly reassure them that there is nothing to be worried about.
We believe that water confidence is an essential skill for all children, it’s why we do what we do, and why we do it so well! Don’t hesitate, come join us and jump right in to see for yourself how special it can be!
Get in touch for more information!
littlestar@waterbabies.co.uk
01382 690425
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