The idea of bringing your baby to a water source larger than the bathtub might sound a bit frightening. However, infant swimming lessons have a wide range of benefits to your little one. Below is a list of reasons why you should introduce your baby to swimming lessons before the age of 1.
1. It Helps To Reduce Cases of Drowning
Drowning is one of the leading causes of death in the United States and around the world. Unfortunately a significant percentage of these fatalities are children. Introducing your baby to swimming early enough can help to build their comfort in the water and break down any barriers that may hinder confidence in taking more swimming lessons at a later age.
Additionally, early swimming lessons help your baby acquire a heightened appreciation of water, helping them understand safety-related boundaries around pools and other water bodies. This understanding will make bath times a fun activity for both of you, and visits to the beach or a splash pad less stressful.
However, it is essential to note that even with the increased safety and comfort around water, which is acquired from swimming lessons, you must always supervise your child around water bodies and bathtubs and equip them with the right attire such as swim nappies and swim floaters.
2. It Aids Sensory Development
Research shows that a higher percentage of brain development takes place between birth and three years of age. The first year is especially crucial in your child’s cognitive development. One of the best ways to ensure that this development is encouraged is by stimulating your baby’s senses.
Swimming lessons are a great way to achieve this. While taking the lessons, your baby gets exposed to new movements while seeing various colors and new objects. They also get to observe new people inside and around the pool and experience a water body larger than the bathtub. All of these elements offer different sensory exposure, which is excellent for your baby’s brain development.
3. Swimming Lessons Are a Great Opportunity To Bond With Your Baby
Infant swimming lessons are a great opportunity to connect with your baby and play together. The lessons, which must take place in the presence of a parent or two, offer a platform for you to be a source of comfort to your baby as he or she explores a new environment. It also allows you to make eye and skin contact and have some fun.
Taking part in this activity continuously can go a long way in solidifying your bond with your child.
4. It Increases Body and Spatial Awareness
Early swimming lessons help your body learn more about their body movements and become more aware of their surroundings. This awareness is essential in developing gross and fine motor skills. As they continue taking swimming lessons, babies start to explore how their actions affect the water.
Water allows for 360-degree feedback of body movements, thus allowing your baby to see and feel the effect of motion.
Swimming lessons can be an instrumental part of your baby’s growth and development. The earlier you start them, the better results you will receive from your little one.
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