Please note: this is an old article
It was published in September 2022, so the information may be out-of-date.
It is so important for every child to learn how to swim and gain water safety skills. While swimming lessons do not protect infants from drowning, or teach them traditional swimming skills, they create an environment where babies become familiar and comfortable with water.
At Aquamoves, we teach children from as young as 6 months old. While children at this age are not developmentally ready to swim on their own, research suggests that children who begin lessons from 6 months are ahead of the general population in literacy and numeracy skills. Water is an excellent way for your baby to be confident, happy and independent.
The benefits of enrolling infants in swimming lessons
1. Helps babies to sleep better and improve their appetite
Swimming is a gentle beneficial exercise for babies. Swimming uses their energy, which helps them to sleep better at night due to them actually being tired. Make sure you have some food for them after the class, as they will be sure to be hungry.
2. Increases baby-parent bond
During baby lessons, parents are required to get in the water. As you participate in the class activities and games, you are engaging with your baby to help them perform the tasks. The more and more this occurs, the greater the bond and connection you will form. This bond will grow stronger and strengthen your babies’ trust and sense of security.
3. Improves mental development and cognitive function (confidence, social skills, self-esteem)
Babies that start swimming early are up to 15 months ahead of their peers in counting and language. Babies that swim early show long term health benefits in the form of balance, catching and grasping skills.
4. Teaches good water safety habits
Bringing your baby to the pool is a great way for them to recognise the dangers early and create good water safety habits. Babies who are exposed to water and aquatic areas are able to identify that they are required to be with an adult. Babies will utilise their breath control techniques which are used in lessons.
5. Increases physical activity
Water is buoyant, which means that your baby can participant in physical exercise while in a friendly and safe space. Babies in the water will use their reflexes, arms and legs to splash and kick. They will also use their muscles to hold their head up and work on their coordination. Overall, swimming will strengthen your babies’ cardiovascular system, promote joint movement and muscle growth.
Contact us today for the ultimate nurturing experience between you and your baby. Phone 5832 9400 or email swimschool@aquamoves.com.au.
