The American Association of Pediatrics says children can safely take swim lessons as early as age 1. Until 2010, the AAP had specified this number as age 4, but when research showed a reduced risk of drowning in preschoolers who had taken swimming lessons, the organization amended its advice.
What is the best age to start swimming lessons?
The AAP recommends swim lessons as a layer of protection against drowning that can begin for many children starting at age 1.
How soon can you take a baby swimming?
Babies can go into water from birth. However, they can’t regulate their temperature like adults, so it’s very important to make sure they don’t get too cold. Babies can also pick up an infection from water. Therefore, it’s generally best to wait until your baby is around 2 months old before you take them swimming.
Is a chlorine pool safe for babies?
Some research suggests that infant swimming in chlorinated pools might increase the risk of airway inflammation, but there isn’t enough information conclusively linking infant swimming and asthma to warrant keeping healthy babies out of indoor pools.
Can I take my 3 month old swimming?
Babies have a natural affinity to water and you can safely take your baby swimming as early as 3 months. It’s important to introduce your baby to water before and after in-pool swim lessons.
How far away can baby smell Mom?
One of my favorite things to do is show mothers how their baby can smell them from as far away as one to two feet.
Do you shower baby after swimming?
Even though we do our part to keep our water disinfected and free of contaminants, we still highly recommend washing your children off at the showers after their swimming lesson.
What do babies wear in the pool?
From one year old, babies can start to wear float suits, jackets or vests in the pool. Although armbands are the first choice for many parents, swimwear with built-in buoyancy aids can help babies feel more confident in the pool and encourage them to maintain the natural horizontal position for swimming.