Water Babies

I'm not too sure if there's such class in Malaysia. A colleague was searching for a swimming class for babies as she believes that it should benefit the infant.

It looks scary to me. I mean they are so small and all but looking at these pics I think they are better swimmer than me :)

Benefits of Baby Swimming
The benefits of baby swimming are numerous, proven by extensive research into this area. This section outlines a few reasons why it is a good idea to start swimming at an early age.

Reflexes

Newborn babies have a number of inbuilt reflexes which can be utilised to aid early movement in the water and learn safety skills.

The 'gag' reflex is an natural involuntary response that causes the windpipe to be sealed so that water does not enter the lungs. This reflex is thought to disappear sometime in a child's first year, but means babies can naturally hold their breath underwater before learning to control it through the exercises in our classes.

The swimming or 'amphibian' reflex causes a baby's arms and legs to move and propel them through the water and this reflex is thought to disappear between 6 and 12 months. This makes it look like a newborn can swim under the water. Introducing a baby to water whilst this reflex is still present helps them to develop their own voluntary movements in water rather than sinking motionless when the reflex disappears.

The righting reflex is present in a baby over 4-5 months old and is demonstrated when a baby tries to lift its head upright when lying on their back or front, which can cause frustration. Floating exercises used in our classes avoid the stimulation of this reflex so that the baby remains relaxed and will enjoy swimming and floating on their backs.

By understanding these reflexes and working with them, we can lead babies from their first splashes through to swimming, with a lot of fun along the way !

For more information about this approach to baby swimming and research, you can visit the Birthlight web site.

Development
Babies are at their most receptive in the period immediately following birth. The pool is a multi-sensory environment, opening babies minds up to whole new experiences and is a great opportunity for parent baby bonding as it involves lots of eye and physical contact.

Swimming allows babies and toddlers to move independently through the water long before they can crawl or walk, aiding development of muscles, coordination, balance, lung capacity, stamina and the brain - to mention just a few !

Personalities are further developed as the child tries out new skills in the water - the more cautious children learn to take risks as they attain new skills and the more boisterous children can become more prudent! Older children enjoy achieving new goals, making new friends and becoming independent, so increasing their self-confidence.

Social Benefits
Parents and children often find new friends through our classes, sharing a common interest and it's a great souce of information about everything related to parenthood.

Families can enjoy time together in the water if everyone enjoys splashing in the pool, providing an opportunity for escaping the pressures of everyday life.

Holidays provide a great opportunity for trying out new water skills, copying older siblings (or younger ones!) and ultimately, just having fun in the sea or pool. Practising water safety skills for these situations through baby swimming classes is a great asset.