Just keep swimming

Written by Cassie Mitchell | May 22, 2025 10:00:01 AM

I have always loved swimming and I wanted my children to learn to swim young so that they could be confident, safe and enjoy the water. I asked Kira from Tiny Tots Splashes to give more insight into why and how swimming is beneficial for babies.

What age is best for babies to start swimming?

It might surprise you to learn that there’s no minimum age for babies to start swimming - water is a natural environment for babies to be in.

Newborn (0-6 month) swimming lessons are a fantastic way to introduce your little one to water with the guidance of a trained swimming teacher. We personally find that around 12 weeks is the ideal age to start newborn swim lessons, however some lessons are available for babies as young as a few days old. You can start as soon as you and your baby feel ready!

It’s important to remember that swimming lessons for newborns aren’t just about learning to swim. Many newborn swimming lessons incorporate songs, games and other fun activities, making them a social and enjoyable experience for both babies and parents.

What are the benefits of swimming for babies?

Helps to improve coordination and balance
Helps to build muscles - Working and strengthening baby's muscles effectively helps to make them stronger.
Provides quality bonding time - We always have less time that we would like with our little ones, it is an unfortunate effect of being so busy. Time in the pool is one of the few times when your little one has your undivided attention.
Strengthens your baby on the inside - While swimming will help to develop baby's muscles and joints, it also improves the strength of their heart and lungs, and helps to develop their brain.
Can improve baby's sleep - While swimming isn’t going to make your baby sleep through the night every night, the extra exercise will help to make them sleepier.
Can improve a baby’s appetite - Lots of gentle exercise and warm water helps to make babies hungry, so make sure you have some sort of snack or milk for after their lesson.
Swimming builds water confidence - Many parents pass on an uneasiness of water to their children because they themselves are not confident swimmers. Going in the water with your baby will not only make them more assured about being in and around water, but it can also build your confidence too!

Some tips for getting started

Don’t feel pressured to rush into taking your baby swimming, it’s never too late to introduce them to the water when you both feel ready.
Ensure the pool is warm enough for your baby, especially if they are very young as babies can become cold quickly. Speak to your local swim school to ensure that you’re in the right pool for your child’s age.
Pack everything you’ll need, including a swim nappy, a soft towel and a baby swimsuit, along with an extra towel or layers for warmth after swimming.
Always keep a close hold on your baby in the water and never leave them unattended, even for a second.
If your baby seems unhappy, tired or overwhelmed, it’s perfectly fine to cut the session short and try again another day.
Babies may cry during swim lessons for a variety of reasons, including being overwhelmed by new settings, feeling cold, tired etc. It's important to remember that crying is a normal way for babies to communicate. If this happens, try to stay calm, patient, and reassure them.
Although it's easily done, please don’t compare your baby’s swimming journey to others, all babies learn in their own time.

The impact swimming lessons have on little ones

Swimming lessons are such a vital life skill that all children should have access to. Starting your child into swimming lessons can set them up for life, and could very much safe their life one day.

About Tiny Tots Splashes

Here at Tiny Tots Splashes we are passionate about teaching babies and children the importance to be water confident, have fun, be free, and enjoy the water while learning life-saving water skills and stroke technique.

We've been running swimming lessons as a family for over 15 years from our family home in Bedhampton. As a swim school we have built up an excellent reputation over the years for the fast progression rate that is achieved and the intense but fun enjoyable lessons we provide.

We are a friendly, passionate team of eight staff working either front of house or behind the scenes from pool owners, pool chemical operators, admin and teachers.

Our team of qualified and insured swimming teachers are professionals when it comes to identifying children’s swimming abilities/levels and personal needs. We believe children progress faster and more confidently - not just physically but also emotionally - when assisted in the water. All our expert instructors teach every class from in the water to provide more interaction and a better demonstration of skills.

Our team members have become the heart of Tiny Tots’ success over the years, offering a personal and unique experience. Our team of swimming instructors have over 67 years of experience between them in the swimming industry.

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