Between birth and two years old, your baby will develop at an extraordinary rate, and each milestone will be a new source of wonder for you. Discover with us the major stages of their development and how to communicate with them to help stimulate their learning.
Fun and stimulating, baby swimming lessons encourage toddlers' natural ability to move in the water. A lovely moment of shared enjoyment between parents and children!
After nine months in their mother's womb, all babies are comfortable in the water! Until around one year old, they still possess the swimming (or apnea) reflex: underwater, they spontaneously close their mouth, hold their breath, and move their arms and legs. Why not take advantage of these natural abilities to offer your little one baby swimming sessions?
Baby swimming: a fulfilling activity
Offered in many swimming pools, baby swimming lessons are not intended to teach swimming, but to promote sensory development and motor skills in infants: in the water, they become aware of the contours of their bodies, learn to move They experience things differently and discover new sensations. This activity also fosters their self-confidence, independence, and sociability through the presence of the group. Finally, it's a special moment of connection and shared enjoyment between parents and children. What more could you ask for?
Baby swimming: how the sessions work
Each baby is accompanied by one or both parents, and the group is supervised by a specially trained swimming instructor. The water is preheated to room temperature, between 32°C and 37°C. Entry into the water is gentle, in your arms, at a pace that suits your child. Once they are comfortable in the water, the instructor will suggest gradually lowering them underwater while holding them (never forcing them), then letting go and moving a few steps away: you will be amazed to see your baby swim underwater to join you! Is your baby struggling yet? Don't worry! Several sessions may be necessary: each baby progresses at their own pace, according to their age, temperament, and natural comfort in the water.
During the sessions, a variety of aquatic play equipment is also offered to toddlers according to their age: balls, boards, buoys, mats, slides… So many opportunities to explore new sensations and have fun, with their parents or other children.
If your baby shows signs of fatigue or gets cold before the end of the session, don't force it: get them out of the water and quickly warm them up with a soft towel. Fun is the primary goal of baby swimming!
Baby swimming, in practice
From what age can children start baby swimming lessons?
You can start baby swimming lessons once your baby has received their first two mandatory vaccinations (diphtheria, tetanus, and polio), around 4 months old. A medical certificate stating there are no contraindications will be required for registration. Remember to bring a waterproof diaper or a leak-proof swimsuit to prevent any accidents in the water.
How long do baby swimming sessions last?
The sessions last a maximum of 30 minutes for children up to 18 months old, and up to 1 hour for children between 18 months and 6 years old. After that, children can attend regular swimming lessons. Being very comfortable in the water thanks to baby swimming classes, they will learn to swim much more easily!
At the end of the session, offer your child a breastfeed, a bottle or a small snack depending on their age: these moments in the water require a lot of energy and they may get hungry.
Once you get home, wash it thoroughly. And hydrate it Completely to eliminate all chlorine residue, soothe and nourish their skin. Calm and relaxed, your baby will surely want nothing more than a good nap to recharge!
