So you’ve welcomed the newest addition to your Houston household as a part of the family and you’ve been enjoying sharing all of the fun parts of your home with them. However, there are probably one or two places in your home that you’re still a bit apprehensive about letting your new baby experience and your backyard swimming pool is probably one of those places.
It doesn’t matter if your baby is over a year old or just a few months old, as a parent you are obviously going to try and be very protective of them. Your child’s first experience in a swimming pool is a momentous occasion for you as a parent and also for your child!
With a little preparation, your baby’s first swim can be a fun experience for both of you. Here are a few tips that can make your baby’s first swim go smoothly!
Baby’s First Dip in Your Houston Pool – Swim Diapers
Babies can’t control their bladders just yet, so to avoid unfortunate accidents in the pool you are going to need to make use of swim diapers. These special diapers are made specifically with swimming pools in mind and they are sold in most popular baby stores.
As an alternative, some baby swimsuits actually have washable swim diapers that are built in; however, that can sometimes prove to be too much of a hassle.
Baby’s First Dip in Your Houston Pool – Short And Sweet
Even if your child seems to be having a blast with their first dip in the swimming pool, it is important that you don’t overdo it. Not only does this mean that you shouldn’t overexert them but most importantly, your first few practice sessions with them should be no more that 10 – 15 minutes long. After the first six or so times then you can increase the duration of these swims to 30 minutes, while still making sure that your baby is not being overexerted.
Baby’s First Dip in Your Houston Pool – Fight Off The Sun
This is a no brainier but it still needs to be mentioned. Don’t take your baby on practice swims during the time of day when the sun is the hottest (usually from 10 am to 2 pm).
Sun protective baby swimsuits are recommended and babies that are older than 6 months should use baby-specific sunscreen. Consult your pediatrician if your baby is less than 6 months old.
Baby’s First Dip in Your Houston Pool – Make Them Feel Calm
Babies are emotional sponges – if they sense that you are stressed, worried, or scared then it is highly likely that they will act the same way as well.
Carry one of their favorite toys into the pool with them so that they have something familiar in their surroundings (bath toys are recommended since they are already associated with water).
Most importantly, always maintain eye contact with your baby and try your best not to lose your cool if things don’t go as planned.
