Baby swimming has many benefits for your baby, but you need to know when is the best time and age for them to start.
Most parents have opted to put their children in swimming lessons as early as possible, so that they already have contact with water and are better able to handle themselves in aquatic environments, reducing the risk of drowning.
So, if you want to find out once and for all when the ideal time to put your baby in baby swimming is, we'll tell you all about it. Check it out!
When is the best time to start baby swimming?
This is a controversial subject and we see a lot of debate out there, especially among the medical community and parents. But one thing is certain: ideally, parents should be prepared and sure of their choice.
Academies offer baby swimming lessons from 3 months, but if parents are unsure about their choice, it's unlikely that their baby will make the progress they expect.
Some experts argue that it's best to start classes from 6 months, when the baby already understands what's going on and the risks of infection are much lower from that age.
That's why it's best to visit a pediatrician beforehand and get to know the professional who will be responsible for your baby during classes, as well as the gym's facilities.
What are the benefits of baby swimming?
As we've seen, the ideal age to start baby swimming depends on several factors. But what are the real advantages of enrolling your child in a swimming class? We'll tell you all about it.
Baby swimming helps with motor coordination, which is very important for your baby to reach important developmental milestones such as sitting, crawling and walking.
Sleep and appetite also improve dramatically, as frequent contact with the water not only causes deep relaxation, but your baby will eat without any major complications.
In addition, baby swimming can considerably improve your child's socialization and sense of space, ensuring that they develop fully and healthily. We mustn't forget to mention the reduction in the risk of drowning, which is one of the greatest benefits of swimming.
What are the risks of baby swimming?
We already know how baby swimming works and what its benefits are, but is there any risk to your baby? Find out!
As we've seen above, starting the practice before the age of six months can cause some problems, such as:
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Infections
At this age, babies still have very low immunity, so the risk of infections from bacteria in the water can be high. That's why it's so important to find a gym that offers good facilities.
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Ear problems
Another risk of starting baby swimming before the right time is the increased risk of developing ear problems, such as infections. To avoid this risk, in addition to respecting the appropriate age, it is necessary to use suitable equipment, such as caps.
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It can be unprofitable
Before the age of 6 months, it's unlikely that the baby will understand the dynamics of the classes and get the most out of the experience.
Now that we've told you everything you need to know about baby swimming before you start, contact your pediatrician today and, with his or her permission, find a suitable gym so that your child can start as safely as possible.