Benefits of Baby Swimming

The following positive benefits of baby swimming are within the scope of possibility for infants and toddlers when taught in a gentle, gradual, child-paced and baby-friendly curriculum.

Children's needs and concerns must be respected, while learning in an environment of joy and acceptance, never compromising a baby's well-being through fear and submission.

Not only can the use of force nullify the following positive benefits, but it can also result in adverse, unintended consequences and side effects. Intensive instruction, pushing a child too fast, too soon, too hard or too long can be detrimental to the child on many levels.

Our goal is to continually lay the most natural and child affirming path for our students today and for future generations. Your patience, sincerity, commitment and ability to "enjoy the moment" in class, will yield big rewards in the long run. See the "Swim Schools" page to learn how to identify programs that are in tune with the needs and development of the whole child.

PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT

Many students can swim before they can walk. As their swimming progresses you will witness improved coordination, strength, endurance and lung capacity.

CONFIDENCE

One of the greatest benefits of baby swimming, when done in a nurturing, holistic environment, is improved confidence. Babies will develop an improved self esteem and independence that propels them through life.

HEALING PROPERTIES

The powerful healing properties of water have been used for thousands of years. Children find this weightless environment comforting and soothing. This is especially true for autistic and special-needs children. Our nurturing baby swimming lessons provide exceptional tactile stimulation through the use of toys as well as auditory stimulation through songs. The specialized movement through games and specific motions help to sync the two hemispheres of the brain and improve responses.

SOCIALIZATION

Babies who interact with other children have more opportunity to learn through mimicking behaviors. children of all ages enjoy interacting. Their social skills improve, and many of our students become great childhood friends as do many of the parents.

SAFETY

Introducing your baby to water through our baby swimming lessons gives both parent and child an opportunity to learn important water safety skills that will drastically reduce the possibility of a water-related accident.

SLEEP

The smooth and fluid exercise in the water results in healthier naps following class. Parents attending the evening classes have noted improved sleeping patterns throughout the night. Since the body repairs and grows during sleep, it is essential to our health that our sleep is uninterrupted and complete. Children who sleep well are healthier and happier individuals.

Information provided by Rob McKay, Lifestyle Swim School

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Swimming For Babies

c/o Optimum Health Center

1200 Cirby Way, Suite G

Roseville, CA 95661

916) 521-7888