Babies are born with a natural affinity for water that they often lose over time. Early introduction is one way of ensuring they maintain their natural enjoyment of it. Even so, plunging into a swimming pool with a new-born in tow can seem daunting. So why bother?

Well, one good reason is that most parents report marked improvements in sleeping and eating patterns. My four month old daughter, A’isha, napped for three blissful hours following our first dip in our local pool at Marian College. Needless to say, we kept going back!

Marian College has special baby swim sessions on Thursday at 10am and Saturday at 3pm. The water and changing rooms are warmed up for extra comfort and instructors are on hand to give support and guidance. The aim of the classes is to encourage gentle water familiarisation for babies and help parents gain confidence.

I was a bit nervous on our first visit but thanks to some patient instruction, I soon managed to relax. A’isha, relishing free independent movement for the first time in her short life, quickly discovered the joys of splashing adults. Like most of the other floating tots, the only time she cried was when we had to get out.

The emphasis is on aiding parents to learn gradually how to have fun safely with their water babes and get maximum enjoyment from one of the few sociable activities they can do together, face to face.

Babies can be brought swimming from birth, however most mothers prefer to wait until a few weeks after delivery. Parents should only go, though, when they feel ready and never when a child is unwell.

Current government health guidelines state that babies can be in the pool prior to immunisation, as the chlorine kills off any germs that might be present. However, leisure centres and pools have differing policies on permitted starting ages, so it is a good idea to check first.

Disposable swim pants are a must and most pools insist they are worn. Ordinary nappies are not suitable, as they swell up on contact with water and can weigh the baby down. Special pants, at reasonable cost, can be ordered online at http://www.splashabout.net or purchased direct from Marian College.

According to many experts, swimming regularly can make a baby mentally sharper, improve strength and coordination. Certainly, frequent swimming has numerous benefits, but the most important one of all is that it’s just a great way to spend a couple of hours with a young one. The added bonus is, of course, that young dippers definitely sleep and eat better on swimming days.

So, if you are tempted to take your little bundle on an aqua trip, remember to pack a snack and bring along plenty of towels.

For further information contact Gwen Bolger on 01-668 9539.