WATER FAMILIARISATION
Many parents ask whether swimming lessons should start when their baby is as young as 4 months old. After more than 65 years of teaching babies and young children, we’ve seen firsthand the difference early exposure to the water can make.
The most important foundation for learning to swim is CONFIDENCE. Children who feel calm, safe, and comfortable in the water are often far more relaxed and responsive during lessons than children who develop fear or hesitation around water later on.
While many children will eventually overcome a fear of the water, introducing swimming from an early age can help create a positive relationship with water right from the beginning. Starting young helps build trust, confidence, and important water safety skills that will support your child throughout their swimming journey.
Bath Time
If your child is not currently 4 months but you plan on starting them when they are, here are a few tips you can do at home to make their first lesson easier.
- With your baby sitting in an upright position, ensure they are relaxed and comfortable.
- Using the cue words…”Name. Ready. Go”.
- Wait one second then gently pour a full cup of water over your baby’s head.
- Follow this with praise, eye contact and a big smile.
After your baby has become conditioned to the cue words (it may take quite a few times), you’ll notice that the words “Name. Ready. Go” prepare your child for what’s coming. This helps when your child’s teacher believes they are ready for their first submersion during lessons.
