Navigating the Waters: Debunking Myths Surrounding Baby Submersions
As a mom and someone who has navigated the early swimming stages with my own children, I am well aware of the anxieties that come with introducing your baby to the water. Today, I want to address a common topic surrounded by myths: submerging your baby underwater.
Separating Myths from Facts
Myth:
“It's dangerous to submerge babies underwater.”
Reality:
With the right approach, submersions can be safe and beneficial. It's all about proper preparation and gentle progress.
Gentle Progressions are Key
Building Comfort
Begin with simple water activities that will build trust and increase comfort in the water. These simple activities could be gentle splashing, singing songs and other playful interactions with the water.
Breath Control
Before venturing into submersions, it's crucial to teach your baby to hold their breath. This foundational skill can be introduced gradually through simple cues and practices during bath time. This is something we teach in our online swim lessons!
Safety and Comfort First
Parental Involvement
Your active presence is vital. By being there with your baby, participating in the activities, you contribute to building a secure and trusting environment.
“Participation in swimming courses could be beneficial to young children, as long as the multilayered protection recommendations were assured.”
Readiness and Respect
It's important to respect your baby’s readiness. Every child’s comfort level with water can vary and that’s perfectly normal. A professional instructor can help in recognizing these cues and adapting the lessons accordingly.
Benefits of Submersions
Skill Development
When introduced correctly, submersions play a pivotal role in enhancing your baby’s swimming skills and boosting their confidence in the water.
Have fun!
Contrary to common belief, many babies find submersions to be a fun and exciting part of their water journey!
Your Baby’s Safety is Paramount
A Careful Approach
Safety is our topmost priority. Each step towards submersion should be approached with caution and mindfulness, always under the watchful eye of a professional. It's essential to follow your baby’s cues and consider their individual needs to ensure a comfortable and loving learning experience.
You can count on me
I understand these topics can be overwhelming, especially for new parents. My aim in sharing this is to provide you with insights and knowledge from my own experiences. If you have any questions or just need someone to talk to about your baby's swimming journey, I'm here for you. Remember, with the right approach, submersions can be a positive and enjoyable part of your baby's aquatic adventure.
Sources:
American Academy of Pediatrics Committee on Injury, Violence, and Poison Prevention (2010). Prevention of drowning. Pediatrics, 126(1), 178–185. https://doi.org/10.1542/peds.2010-1264
At watermellow, we offer one-on-one online baby swimming lessons that teach parents how to safely and effectively teach their babies to swim. Our experienced instructors will guide you through each step of the process, ensuring that you and your baby have a fun and rewarding experience.
Meet Kaylee Kennedy
I'm Kaylee Kennedy, the founder of watermellow.
Our renowned swimming program nurtures and develops each baby's unique abilities.
Inspired by my experience as a young mom teaching my little one to swim, I'm passionate about swimming and its benefits for early childhood development.
Join us at watermellow to help your baby grow an amazing relationship with the water in a safe and supportive environment, creating lasting memories together.
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