Is baby swimming safe?

Asked by: Nicole Lieberman

Babies can go into water from birth. However, they can’t regulate their temperature like adults, so it’s very important to make sure they don’t get too cold. Babies can also pick up an infection from water. Therefore, it’s generally best to wait until your baby is around 2 months old before you take them swimming.

Can I put my 3 month old in the pool?

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) doesn’t have an official age recommendation for when babies can go in pools, but most pediatricians recommend waiting until your baby is about 6 months old or can hold their head up well on their own (around 4 to 5 months).

What is the best age to start a baby swimming?

According to new guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), babies can begin swimming lessons at one year old. Previously, the organization had advised against swim lessons for kids under the age of 4. The new guideline is part of the AAP’s updated advice for drowning prevention.

When can babies go in the pool with chlorine?

6 months

Although there is no absolute guideline – the general consensus by Pediatricians and other health professionals is that babies under 6 months (some would say 12 months) should avoid swimming/pools. Water safety is clearly important for all ages.

Is it OK for babies ears to go underwater?

Your baby’s ear canal and middle ear are separated by the ear drum, so water cannot enter his middle ear while you are bathing him. Therefore, it won’t be harmful if your baby gets water into his ear; however, it can be uncomfortable so it’s safer to avoid getting water inside his ears.

Do babies know to hold their breath underwater?

Infants do possess two reflexes that may make it look as if they know how to swim. The first reflex is the diving reflex, which means if your baby goes underwater they will naturally hold their breath.

When can I submerge my newborn in water?

Baby bathing basics



After two weeks, you can submerge more of your baby’s body in water, but always keep two key factors in mind: Water depth: You only need a few inches of water for the first couple of years. A baby bath seat, while not necessary, can help keep your baby upright and steady.

How do you introduce a baby to swimming?

You. Then put both of your hands behind your baby's head and neck to make sure that's fully supported in your own time gently lean your baby towards you and bring them in towards the water safely.

Can a baby naturally swim?

Infant swimming or diving reflex



Most human babies demonstrate an innate swimming or diving reflex from birth until the age of approximately six months, which are part of a wider range of primitive reflexes found in infants and babies, but not children, adolescents and adults.

Why do babies not drown in water?

A baby doesn’t drown during a water birth because the baby is already in water in the womb. It takes air for breath and when a baby comes from water into water without the introduction of air, the lungs remain collapsed and no water can enter.