by Lana Whitehead, Elite Swim and Gym
Baby swim classes may seem like they are just for fun or to teach life-saving skills, but they’re actually an essential activity in the enhancement of a young child’s development. Here are two benefits of early swim lessons that may surprise you.
Emotional Benefits:
Between the ages of 2 to 6 months infants can begin developing a healthy relationship with the water by enrolling in classes taught with an experienced, certified instructor in a licensed pool regulated by the health department.
Emotionally, the simple, relaxing closeness in the water environment establishes a deeper emotional bond between the parent and child. Tender loving strokes from the parent provide the baby with emotional nourishment that allows him to feel accepted and loved. The skin to skin contact and touch in the water helps to satisfy the child’s need for body contact and tactile stimulation. Research has shown that a firm, loving touch gives the feeling of attachment, commitment and connection.
Strength:
The early swimmer will also experience a great deal of tactile stimulation from the water resistance over his entire body. The water has 600 – 700 times the density or resistance of air which encourages neurological development. Tactile stimulation is important for overall neural development. The more tactile stimulation of the nerves the child experiences, the more interconnections and neural pathways can develop.
Self Confidence:
Scientific studies have shown participation in swim class helps to strengthen a child’s self-confidence. In a longitudinal study, Dr. Liselott Diem and her colleagues reported that children, who took part in baby swim lessons from the age of 2 months to 4 years, were better adapted to new situations, had better self-confidence and independence than non-swimmers. In swim class the child cooperates within a social structure to take turns, to share and to cooperate. This fosters a sense of belonging which builds self-esteem and develops social confidence.
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