The Benefits Of Teaching Your Baby To Swim
Baby's and Beyond|December 2019 - February 2020
The first time you take your baby to swimming lessons can be a slightly daunting experience for new parents. The logistics of getting them into their swimming nappy, keeping them warm and encouraging them it will be fun, is enough to put off many parents. However, most parents find there is nothing really to worry about once they try it. Remember to find a warm pool and keep swimming sessions short at first as babies can chill easily.
The Benefits Of Teaching Your Baby To Swim

You may consider enrolling in special baby swimming lessons; these mostly start at around three to six months. A good way to prepare your baby at home for the experience of swimming is to get them used to the feeling of being immersed in water at bath time with a bit of gentle splashing.

With South Africa’s lovely weather, most of us love to swim. It is the largest participation sport and many children say it is their favorite family activity. Starting early with your baby is a good way to build early familiarity and confidence.

Coordination and balance

Practicing maintaining balance in the pool and the vestibular challenge it provides can lead to improved balance out of the pool too. Water supports the body, which helps the baby focus on body position and balance.

Cognitive function

Bilateral cross-patterning movements, which use both sides of the body to carry out an action, help your baby’s brain grow.

Cross-patterning movements build neurons throughout the brain, but especially in the corpus callosum. This facilitates communication, feedback, and modulation from one side of the brain to another. When swimming, your baby moves their arms while kicking their legs. And they’re doing these actions in water, which means their brain is registering the tactile sensation of water plus its resistance. Swimming is also a unique social experience, which furthers its brain-boosting power.

Muscular development

Along with the vestibular challenge, swimming is great for muscle development to help build nice strong core muscles.

Attachment

Babies have your undivided attention whilst in the pool and this is a great opportunity for bonding. You are watching them, responding to their cues and having fun together. Make sure swimming is a fun and positive experience.

Brain development

This story is from the December 2019 - February 2020 edition of Baby's and Beyond.

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This story is from the December 2019 - February 2020 edition of Baby's and Beyond.

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