Are baby swimming lessons worth it? Some would say yes for water safety, some might say yes for the exercise value, while other parents might take their babies to swimming lessons for pure fun. When it comes to deciding for your baby, keep in mind that babies and children learn things at their own pace and you know your child better than anyone else.

If you're still on the fence about what age is right for your baby to start swimming lessons, read on for some insights that can help you decide. 

Why Swimming Lessons Are Worth It

Introducing your baby to the wonders of water from an early age has benefits that spill over into other areas of their development. Here are some of the advantages of swimming lessons for your baby:

• Water offers gentle resistance that strengthens muscles
• Moving in water is a fantastic cardio workout and improves heart, lung, and brain function
• Improves balance and coordination through training neuro-muscular pathways
• Helps improve sleep patterns by using up lots of energy
• May increase appetite as moving and regulating body temperature uses a lot of calories
• Being in the water with your child is a fun way to bond and spend time together

Focusing on age-appropriate goals for each age group is a great way to get the best out of swimming lessons for your child.

When to Start Swimming Lessons

When should a child start swimming lessons? As with all developmental milestones, no two children are the same. The best time to introduce your child to swimming lessons is when they are ready. Here are some of the signs that it might be time to sign your child up at your local swim school:

• Your child can get their face wet without swallowing water
• They are happy to blow bubbles in the water
• They are comfortable floating with adult support
• Your child is happy to splash and kick their legs

Maybe you've been wondering what age should swimming lessons start? You may even feel like you've left it too long and your child is too old. Well, the good news is that it's never too late for your child to start swimming lessons. 

How Swimming Lessons Differ at Each Age

Each swimming school will have its own approach to nurturing little swimmers. The big question in most parents’ minds is, 'Are baby swimming lessons safe?' With the right environment and constant supervision, the answer is absolutely. 

Don't be scared to ask for details of how the lessons are structured, what the level of supervision is like, and anything else you want to know. Choose the swim school that you feel comfortable with, and that you think will work best with your child's personality and abilities.

Under One Year Old

What are baby swimming lessons? How early can a baby start swimming lessons? Bearing in mind that most children under the age of one may not have gathered enough coordination to stand upright or walk yet, you may wonder what they do in baby swimming lessons.

Baby swimming lessons are all about getting your baby comfortable in and around the water. Parent-child duos are the ideal way to get your baby comfortable in water as your baby already knows and trusts you.

Look for a swim school that:

• Encourages you to observe a class in action
• Creates a low-pressure atmosphere focused on getting your baby comfortable in the water
• Doesn't focus on swimming skills at this age, but places an emphasis on fun
• Maintains an ideal water temperature and a clean pool
• Encourages parents to be in the pool for the class

Look for a safe but fun environment that offers your baby time to grow into this new experience at their own pace, while under a constant watchful eye. 

One to Four Years Old

Water safety is the main focus of swimming lessons at this age. Getting them used to the feel of the water, growing their trust until they are able to relax enough to begin floating. 

Getting used to splashing, holding onto the side of the pool and kicking their legs and blowing bubbles in the water are some of the activities that a swim instructor may do with this age group. 

Five Years And Older

From this age, children can start working on stroke techniques and rhythmic breathing. They learn to push off the wall and discover other swimming styles such as butterfly, backstroke, and breaststroke.

An older child who begins swimming at this age is likely to learn quickly and catch up to their peers who've been swimming for a longer time.

The Importance of Wearing Quality Swimwear

To gain the most benefit from swimming lessons, it's important for your child to feel comfortable in their swimsuit. If lessons take place in an outdoor pool, look for a swimsuit with maximum coverage to protect them from the sun, such as the Green Cockatoo Unisex Long Sleeve Zip Swimmers.

Investing in a swimsuit that fits your child and isn't scratchy or uncomfortable will leave them free to enjoy their lesson without being distracted. Picking out a cute design that they love will make each lesson something they look forward to.

Are Baby Swimming Lessons Worth It? 

Swimming is a great life skill that is relaxing, social and sporty. Equipping your child with an essential safety skill that unlocks a new branch of sports for them to participate in (water polo, diving, need we go on?) and opens up a world of social activities seems like a complete win! 

If you're ready to book some swimming lessons and get your baby a new swimsuit for the occasion, browse our range of designs and order your favourite today.