Classes for the Youngest Swimmers

How Young is Too Young?

While the American Association of Pediatrics recommends that children younger than four should never be enrolled in independent swimming classes, baby swimming classes are still easily found. These classes always include the presence of a parent, or another responsible guardian. While in the pool, the parent or guardian maintains contact with the baby at all times, ensuring safety.

While opinions differ, some early childhood experts believe that a child can be introduced to the water as soon as their umbilical cord (or circumcision) has healed. In fact, some experts believe that if a parent waits longer than a few months, the baby will lose their instinctive swimming abilities. This choice is always ultimately up to the parent, so research several different opinions and decide what feels best for your child.

Can Babies be Taught to Swim?

Instruction in baby swimming classes is very different from the instruction in swimming classes for older children. In many cases, it's simply a matter of instructing the parents on how to hold their children while in the water.

Methods vary greatly depending on the instructor. Some swimming teachers believe that allowing a baby's head to go beneath the water is fine, as long as a responsible adult is right there to pull them back up. Others don't instruct parents to let their baby's heads go under, and focus instead on holding the child in the water and allowing them to become accustomed to the feeling of weightlessness. This is another area in which your opinions as the parent are extremely important. If you feel pressured by an instructor to go against what you feel is right for your child, don’t' hesitate before switching to another class.

Swimming classes for babies are usually a great deal of fun for both babies and the parents involved. These classes are a great way to bond with your child while introducing them to what may become a life-long love of the water. Many experts believe that children who are enrolled in baby swimming classes have a much better chance of becoming strong, capable swimmers than children whose parents wait until they are older.

What if My Child is Scared?

Parents who introduce their babies to water extremely early in life generally report a remarkable lack of fear, both initially and later in life. Experts attribute this to the instinctive nature of swimming.

If your child is a bit older, you may encounter some fear of the water. This can range from mild nervousness to a full-blown terrified tantrum at the sight of a pool. Your common sense will tell you if baby swimming classes are right for your child. While a bit of encouragement can help babies and toddlers to overcome a mild case of anxiety, pushing a terrified child will only intensify their fear. In some cases, pushing can lead to a life-long phobia of water. If your child is truly afraid, don't push too hard. Baby swimming classes are a great way to figure out if your child is ready to swim, or if they need to wait a while longer.

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