Getting Babies Used to Water
This exercise introduces your child to the experience of water resistance. Hold your child with both hands under their armpits, placing your thumbs on their chest and your other fingers on their shoulder blades. Slowly sway your child three times from left to right. Next, walk 5 meters backward while maintaining eye contact at all times. Finally, walk the 5 meters forward again. Throughout the exercise, make an effort to exude positive energy to create a reassuring and enjoyable atmosphere.
Preparation Exercises
On the mat next to the pool
Use a soft swim mat for this exercise. These mats are available in most conventional indoor swimming pools and can usually be borrowed for a short time. Place the mat at the edge of the pool and sit your child on it. Spend a few minutes playing with the child and letting them observe the surroundings while you stand in the water. Try to convey joy and a sense of well-being. Occasionally, you can also splash a little water onto the mat and the child. This exercise helps the child gradually get used to the unfamiliar environment of the indoor pool.
Entering the water
Hold your child against your chest so they can look over your shoulder, supporting the child’s head with your hand. It’s best to carry the child slightly to one side, allowing you to use your other hand to hold the railing. Infants often prefer to be carried on the heart side, as they can feel the heartbeat through skin contact. This grip provides warmth and a sense of security for the child. Slowly descend the steps into the water step by step until the water reaches the child’s chest. This exercise is particularly suitable for children up to 6 months old, who still enjoy close skin contact with their parents.
Häufige Fehler
Grip too close to the armpits
Make sure not to hold your child too close to the armpits, as this can reduce blood flow to the arms. The grip should sit gently just below the armpits, staying loose and comfortable. Also, regularly check your child’s skin. If it appears significantly paler than usual, it’s a sign to end the swimming session to prevent hypothermia.
