Olympic swimmer Rebecca Adlington shares her top tips for taking your baby swimming
As you might expect, I was really keen to take Summer swimming. But even though I’m used to being in water, and have spent more time in a pool than most new mums, I was still nervous about whether she would like it, never mind remembering all the extra stuff she’d need.
Then try laying him on his back. Cradle him initially, keeping him close to you and bringing his hands to the midline of his chest. If he’s happy, gradually lessen the amount of support and offer him the freedom to float with you, placing one hand under his head, and the other under his bottom. Let his ears submerge and use just enough support to stop his head sinking underwater. Take a breath, relax your arms and shoulders and let him float.
When you’re confident enough to visit a public pool , choose a quiet time. If he’s unsettled, keep him close, use a rhythmic bobbing motion and ensure his ears are submerged when back floating to help filter out any noise. To try it when you’re in the pool, sit on the steps and put your baby on your knee and hold her around her waist so she is facing towards you. Let water trickle off your fingertips on to her head. Even wetting your hand and rubbing it against her cheek will get her used to the sensation. Now Summer’s older, I dip her and quickly lift her back up, so she’s confident having her whole head underwater.
As your baby gets a bit older you can start to allow her a bit more freedom to move around in the water. Holding her under both arms is great for playing lifting and splashing games.
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