Baby swimming doesn't have to start in the pool. The bath is a great place to start swimming lessons even for newborns.
Small babies are slippery and difficult to hold securely. When babies are very small its likely that you will be in the bath with them, so keep the water shallow so you feel safe and there's less chance of slipping. Hold baby close so she feels secure. Lie her on her back on your lap and look into her eyes. Hold under her arms and clasp your hands together over her chest. This way she can't slip down and you have a very secure hold.
Let the water swish around her, hold your eye contact and keep smiling so she knows that she's in a safe place. This is where baby swimming really starts!
Baby swimming needs to be a positive experience. Always talk about the positive sensations of being in the water. Keep language simple and clear, using words like 'warm', 'clean', 'float' and 'splash'. These positive words will reinforce the fun of being in the water.
Submersions start with getting baby used to having water on her face. If you start this process early you won't have trouble in swimming lessons later on. Take things slowly - and avoid surprises. Start with slowly dripping water from a facecloth over your baby's face (ust a few drops to start with). Before the action, always let her know what you are going to do. We tend to use a very simple cue - for example, 'Now Sarah, we are going to drip some water. 1,2,3, go!' Always keep eye contact, and at the same time as you drip the water, close your eyes and mouth. Soon your baby will copy your facial expression and learn to keep her eyes and mouth closed.
Always cue your baby before you do this exercise. Although too young to understand the words she will start to know what to expect, reducing anxiety - for both of you!
Simple songs help both you and baby relax in the water. Don't be self conscious, choose gentle, calming songs that you can sing at every bathtime. I find Twinkle Twinkle and Baa Baa Blacksheep work wonders as distractions if babies are getting a little anxious.
Baby swimming is based on an enjoyment of the water. If you relax and have fun at bathtime, your baby will too. Stick to a routine: sing the same songs and use the same cues every bathtime and you will both have a wonderful time splashing around.
Research shows that a stress-free bathtime routine that encourages young babies to feel comfortable with water around their faces and ears will make swimming lessons much easier when they get older. Follow these simple tips and you will soon be on the way to happy, relaxed baby swimming!