At what age is it safe for your baby to start swimming lessons?

When is it safe to teach your baby how to swim?

The answer may surprise you, but babies can actually swim from birth!

 

It is safe to teach your child how to swim as a newborn, and babies are actually born with an aptitude for swimming. This is due to the fact that they are surrounded by liquid in the womb, which allows them to become familiar with a warm aquatic environment. Additionally, babies are born with reflexes that enable them to hold their breath underwater.

Although these reflexes greatly assist the learning to swim process, babies do not instinctively know how to swim and still need to be taught. These reflexes fade around 6 months of age, so by starting swimming early, you can utilize your child's natural abilities while they still have them, which increases their success in the water for years to come.


Does this mean I can start teaching my baby in the pool right away?


While babies can start swimming as infants, they do not have the ability to regulate their body temperature, which makes cold swimming pools not ideal for babies until they are at least 6 months old. However, there are other ways you can introduce your child to swimming and start teaching them this lifelong skill!

 

Swimming in the bathtub with your baby is a great and safe way to start their swimming journey. Bathtub swimming lessons also exist to provide you with all the tools necessary to successfully teach your child.

Swimming in the bathtub is a great place to start because you have control of the environment, which allows you to set up a positive swimming space. Bathtubs are quiet, clean, safe, and warm. Babies prefer warmer temperatures, and it is recommended to use water that is between 86 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

 
 

At watermellow, we offer online baby swimming lessons to help you and your child get started on their swimming journey, right at home. Our experienced instructors will provide you with the tools and guidance you need to successfully teach your child to swim.

Don’t wait – start your child’s swimming journey today and give them the gift of a lifetime of enjoyment in the water.

Meet Kaylee Kennedy

I'm Kaylee Kennedy, the founder of watermellow.

Our renowned swimming program nurtures and develops each baby's unique abilities.

Inspired by my experience as a young mom teaching my little one to swim, I'm passionate about swimming and its benefits for early childhood development.

Join us at watermellow to help your baby grow an amazing relationship with the water in a safe and supportive environment, creating lasting memories together.

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