Swimming is a super fun activity which is not only an essential life skill to introduce to your baby or toddler, but something that the whole family can get involved in. Making swimming part of your weekly routine will be a great bonding activity for the both you and your little one to look forward to, and watching their confidence grow will be very rewarding.

 

There is a lot to think about when you first take your baby swimming and at ZIPPYUP we know ease and comfort for our little wrigglers is essential, particularly for swimming. The Zippyup baby grow is super quick to take on and off your baby, making them the perfect choice for after your swim. The zip feature ensures that after all the splashing around, you can get your child dressed easily and fast. We have compiled a list of some more swimming tips with some extra safety advice so you can get the most out of swimming with your little one

 

The experts advise that mothers should wait at least seven days after any bleeding after the birth before swimming. Bleeding after birth usually takes around six weeks so to avoid any risk of infection, its advised you should wait at least until then. You can always ask your health visitor or GP for some advice depending on the birth.

 

Most swimming classes start at six weeks, while some private swimming classes can start from as early as four weeks. If you are keen for your baby to get started then, your partner or somebody else could take them.

 

Safety tip

If your baby is younger than six months old, ensure the pool is heated to about 32 degrees. Big public pools are often a few degrees colder so you could put your baby in a wetsuit for extra warmth.

 

Making swimming fun & boosting confidence

Hold your baby super close
Reassure your baby with lots of eye contact
Talk to your baby and praise your baby with encouraging words
Once your baby seems happy in the water you could try extending your arms and swishing your baby in front of you from side to side.
You could bring some of his bath toys for familiarity and play some games with them in the pool.
Lay your baby on his back with his resting on your shoulder and encourage your baby to kick their legs.

 

 

What should I pack?

Lots of snacks (depending on childs age) swimming makes kids hungry!
A soft hooded towel for your baby or towelling dressing gown or poncho for toddlers as they will be super wriggly!
Changing mat along with all your normal essentials in your changing mat.
A couple of changes of clothes in case any accidents.
Swimming nappies. And lots of them, again incase of any accidents.
Floats or arm bands (optional). Some pools provide them.
A warm hat for your baby after swimming.
Warm bottle for after swimming (if youre bottle feeding)

 

And remember

Make sure you time your swim with your little one well. Ensure they are well-rested, not ill, and have eaten/drunk lots before your swim.
Get yourself ready for swimming before your baby- keep them in their buggy/car seat while you get changed- always wear your costume underneath your clothes for a smoother and quicker transition!

 

Here is a list of swimming organisations that offer swimming lessons and courses for babies and children in the U.K.

Check if there is one in your area

www.aquatots.com

www.littledippers.co.uk

www.puddleducks.com

www.swimkidz.co.uk

www.swimbabeslessons.co.uk

www.turtletots.com

www.waterbabies.co.uk

www.babysquids.co.uk

 

Happy swimming!