SWIMMING LESSONS FOR BABIES

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The swimming classes in the water with your baby are unique and magical moments: you will see your little one smile and have fun, and you will enjoy a very special moment together. It is a great opportunity to strengthen your relationship!

What is the objective our of BABY PENGUINS classes?

The main objective in our BABY PENGUINS classes is to maximize your baby’s psychomotor development in the water. Multiple neurological studies conclude that movement and physical activity have a direct impact on babies’ cognitive development, and everything we can do to encourage movement since early age will be beneficial for their growth. In Penguins the swimming classes are dynamic; each exercise we do in the water has a clear objective which helps the baby’s development. Our method, inspired by a recognized swimming school in Sweden, aims at stimulating the development of children at all levels – psychomotor, sensory, intellectual and social, and train them to feel safe, agile, competent and happy in the water.

And… how are the classes?

We are always singing in our classes BABY PENGUINS: this is because music and singing are fundamental elements in this children’s development stage: music helps the intellectual, auditory, sensory, speech and motor development of children. In addition, through the songs the babies relax and in Penguins we want to create a fun learning environment!

We treat the water with salt and ultraviolet medium pressure, and always maintain it at a very comfortable temperature, ideal for the babies’ body, so that they can enjoy the activity in optimal conditions.

When can your baby start swimming lessons? The baby is ready to face the aquatic environment from the first day! At Penguins, we recommend starting when parents feel prepared, since it is important that the experience in the water be positive from the first day and that parents transmit safety to their children.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Why is swimming so good for babies?

“Scientific studies confirm the benefits of aquatic activities for babies and young children in different areas, not only psychomotor. It is a completely safe activity if done in the right environment, with the right staff. It is an excellent activity to practice with parents”. Dr. VICENTE MOLINA, Head of the Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Universitario Quirón Dexeus.

Early childhood stimulation in the aquatic environment brings babies significant benefits, in different areas: intellectual, psychological, emotional, motor, socio-emotional and organic. Many scientific studies confirm that this activity is very important in the psychomotor development of children:

Stimulates the psychomotor and cognitive development
Strengthens the cardiorespiratory system
Promotes the development of the musculoskeletal system
Improves intestinal mobility
Promotes relaxation and contributes to better sleep
Strengthens the emotional bond between parents and babies
Helps socialization since classes are conducted with other babies and families in water
Encourages baby’s autonomy and self-esteem

More information on “News”.

Which pools are suitable for babies?

The type of installation to use with babies is more important than what parents may initially think.

Water temperature should always be regulated between 31ºC and 34ºC, so that babies can feel comfortable in the water for the whole class. Babies have a thinner skin and a thicker subcutaneous capillary network, which is causing faster heat loss than adults.
Ambient temperature is also important, and should always be set 2°C above water temperature level, in order to prevent colds.
It is recommended that the pool is covered and heated.
The pool should be specifically designed for teaching, ideally 1.20 meters deep, so that parents and teachers can comfortably hold the baby and practice optimal exercises.
Babies should be dried and changed next to the pool, in order to prevent colds.
Facilities must have adequate ventilation to ensure optimal air quality. Pools with UV lamps (med. pressure) and a good dehumidifier system guarantee a healthy atmosphere.
The pool should have an adequate system to prevent acoustic noise and echo, which is tiring and affecting the baby.
To avoid skin and/or eye irritation, it is recommended to avoid pools using synthetic chlorine. Salt Water Chlorination is a good alternative as it disinfects the water thanks to salt (used in very small amounts).

Our pool at Penguins meets all the above requirements: it has been specifically designed for babies and children.

As of which age will my child know how to swim?

This will depend on each child, and on his/her previous experience in the water. According to several studies, the locomotor system is sufficiently developed to enable swimming as of 4 years old. However, many children who practice water activities from an early age will start moving autonomously as of 3 years old, or even sometimes as of 2 years old.

When is it not appropriate to go to the pool?

When a baby or a child is sick and/or has fever, he should not go to the pool. Children suffering from ear infection or viral skin infections, should not go to the pool either.

Is it recommended to for a child to practice activities in water if he suffers from: 1/ Otitis, 2/ Asthma, or 3/ Atopic dermatitis?

Otitis is an infection which affects the different structures of the ear, causing inflammation. For children more prone to such infections, it is recommended to use made-to- measure ear plugs, to prevent water from entering the ear canal. Children should also be dried gently after the bath with a towel, or a dryer at minimal speed.

Asthma: Asthma is a chronic disease affecting the respiratory system. Many pediatricians recommend the practice of physical activities in the water for asthmatic children since it does not cause excessive pressure on the chest, it is practiced in a humid environment, and increases breathing capacity.

Atopic dermatitis: is an inflammation of the skin which is also known as eczema: the skin of children who suffer from eczema presents a constant state of dryness. Swimming is adequate as long as the child’s skin is hydrated after each bath.

If my child has a disability, can he/she swim?

Yes of course. For most children, swimming and psychomotor activities in water general has a very positive impact on their development. At Penguins, we believe that all children should have the opportunity to learn to swim, and enjoy all the benefits of this activity.

As of when is the baby ready to discover the aquatic environment?

The baby is ready to discover the aquatic environment as of day one. The earlier the better, in order to make them familiar with water and prevent the unwanted “fear of water” to appear.

At Penguins we recommend starting pool activities when parents feel ready: it is important that the water experience is positive as of the very beginning, and that parents convey a feeling of safety and serenity to their baby.