Is It Time For Baby's First Swimming Lesson? 5 Tips To Remember

Everything that babies do for the first time can be very exciting for many parents. This may include your baby’s first steps, first walk, the first word, and the first time they stand. Meanwhile, one of babies’ ‘first-times’ that can be exciting yet nerve-wracking for most parents is their first swimming lessons.  

Understandably, most parents feel anxious about their babies going for swimming lessons for several reasons. Some may be terrified of the idea of their babies being exposed to water. Some may also have their fears or worries about the swimming instructors, whether they can fully look out for their babies’ safety. Meanwhile, others probably have so many questions in mind about what to do or prepare for their babies’ first swimming lessons.   

To ease your mind and get rid of all those worries and fears about baby swimming lessons, here are five tips to remember to ensure your baby will have a smooth-sailing experience:

1. Start Early And Arrive Early 

There isn’t a perfect age when you should enroll your baby in swimming classes, but the earlier you expose your baby to the water, the better. This way, they’ll become comfortable around water and take that feeling with them for life.  

After enrolling your baby in swimming classes, it’d be ideal that you arrive at least 15-30 minutes earlier before the class begins. This will give you plenty of extra time to talk with the receptionist and swimming instructors, use the restroom when needed, and change you and your baby into your respective swimming outfits.  

You can even take a quick tour of the venue of your child’s swimming classes and familiarize yourself with every area in case of emergency. Overall, being early will help you and your baby be at ease and in a positive mind frame.  

2. Always Have Swim Diapers In Hand 

Whether you’re a new parent or not, you’re probably already used to bringing with you lots of diapers and wipes with you at all times. You may also be used to changing your baby’s diapers wherever needed. But, one thing most parents usually forget, especially if it’s their babies’ first swimming lesson, is the swim diaper.  

Some swimming schools may have swim diapers for sale onsite, but it’d be better if you buy your own at least a few days before the start of the swimming classes so you’ll have enough time to choose the right size. Swim diapers will protect your kids from waterborne diseases, which they may contract from the pool. It’s recommended that you buy well-fitted swim diapers to ensure your baby’s stool won’t leak into the water during their swimming lessons. So, whether your baby has been potty trained or not, always have swim diapers in hand.  

3. Pack The Right Things In Advance 

Your preparedness can go a long way in keeping your child comfortable, confident, and responsive for their swim classes. Thus, make sure to pack your bag in advance to have more time to check and recheck if you’ve brought the right things.

For your guide, here’s a checklist of everything you must pack for your baby’s first swimming lessons: 

• Changing mat 
• Nappy bag 
• Clean, soft towel for each one of you 
• Your and your baby’s change of clothes 
• Baby life jackets or baby floaters for your child’s safety 
• Bath toys to create a relaxing environment for your baby 
• Baby lotion 
• Two to three swim diapers 
• Warm milk bottle (if you’re still breastfeeding) 
• Healthy snacks for you and your toddler 
• Your own swimwear 

An additional tip is to avoid feeding your baby within an hour before their swim class to avoid them spitting up during the lesson. Dress your baby in their proper swimwear and a clean swim diaper right before the class begins. 

4. Stay Calm And Have Fun 

Your baby’s swimming instructors won’t only teach your baby how to swim, but they’ll also ensure to keep the learning environment fun and enjoyable for you and your baby. However, be aware that challenges can happen at certain times. Expect that there’ll be days when your baby can be irritable and throw tantrums when put in water.  

Baby swimming lessons won’t always be a walk in the park. So, as a parent, you can do your part by staying calm and relaxed to reflect a more positive and understanding energy with your little one. Most importantly, be present, have fun, and let your baby feel that their swim classes are more like playtime.  

5. Remember That It’s A Long-Term Plan 

You might wonder why most of your baby’s swimming lessons are more like just splashing with water. Remember that baby swimming lessons follow a long-term plan. Before swim instructors teach your baby how to swim, they’d first spend some sessions to let your baby get used to water until they’re finally comfortable.

Moreover, swim schools usually follow different curricula, but they’ll usually start with simple movements to make your baby feel cozy around water. So, stick to the curriculum, and trust the long-term plan. Sooner or later, you’ll see progress, and you might even be surprised how your baby is suddenly picking up its own swimming pace in the water.  

Wrap Up  

If this is your first time enlisting your baby in swimming classes, take note of these tips and remember to keep an open mind. You and your baby are about to start a fun and productive journey together, and these tips will ensure you have a safe and fun experience. If you have concerns or inquiries, don’t hesitate to contact your baby’s swim instructor anytime.