The Benefits Of Swimming For Babies

Parents are naturally protective of their children and will try to keep them out of harm’s way, at least until they’re independent. Some of them are even hesitant about introducing their children to certain essential things in life, such as taking them to the pool. So how do you convince parents about the merits of swimming for babies who haven’t even learned to walk?

Pool installation services have been on the rise across the country as more households choose to enjoy a private dip while getting some exercise. Now studies show that even babies can benefit from learning how to swim before they reach their first birthday.

Research suggests that being in the water engages a baby’s mind in a distinct way. As your little one glides, kicks, and smacks at the water, billions of new neurons are created in his or her little mind, causing him or her to become more intelligent and self-confident.

Here are other benefits of swimming for babies:

1. Improved cognitive functioning
   As stated above, the bilateral cross-patterning motion of your baby’s body, which uses both sides of the body to execute an action, promotes brain growth. With time, this improves spatial awareness, academic learning, language development, and reading skills.
2. Improves their physical and mental health
   Today, parents are more aware of the risks associated with childhood obesity, so they have a chance to instill healthy lifestyle choices from an early age. Swimming is a great way to get your little ones to exercise before they start running and kicking. Swimming provides a complete physical workout that not only strengthens your little one’s heart and lungs, but also stimulates all five senses to promote brain development.
3. Promotes confidence
   Infant swimming classes typically include elements such as songs, water play, and skin-to-skin contact with their parents or caregivers. This level of interaction introduces children at an early age about group work. In fact, a recent German study showed that children aged between 2 months and 4 years who participated in year-round swimming exhibited greater self control, better self-esteem, stronger desire to succeed, and more comfort in social situations compared to non-swimmers.

Safety first

While swimming lessons may reduce the risk of drowning in children aged between 1 and 4 years, it has no impact in children under a year. To promote safety for newborns and infants when swimming, they should never be left alone while in pools or bathtubs. Even 1-inch of water can drown a newborn. So always be close enough to touch your baby when you take him or her for swimming.