I’ve been VERY excited to let my 8 month old swim, though you wouldn’t expect babies to do a backstroke – the thought of my son having fun in the water makes me smile from ear to ear. Ashton and I enjoy bath time very much and I was sure the boy would love to see a larger area of water.
Last Thursday (which was also my birthday), I put Ashton on a real swimming pool for the first time. We bought a really cute floater for him, one with a sun shade that was shaped like a mushroom.
For your reference, here are some items you should have before your swimming activity:
1. Baby floater or salbabida – choose those that have support in the center so your child won’t sink. Ask for “baby type” floaters. Mention the age of your baby and the staff will help you choose the safest floating device. I got ours from Toys R’ Us in Robinsons Manila.
2. Rash Guard for babies – I got Ashton’s swimming outfit from Spin! at Powerplant Mall.
3. Sunscreen for babies – I forgot to buy this, of all things. So do not forget to equip yourself with this and look for sunscreens suitable for baby’s skin.
Also note if the pool you are swimming in is heated. That would be ideal because the pool I put Aston in was rather cold so I had to cut our activity very short 🙁
Consider wearing a “safe” swimming attire, I was able to carry my son in and out of the water without having to worry about my bathing suit. I am wearing a brand called Sassa, this outfit is not really meant for swimming but for running or walking. Yet, the fabric is allowable in swimming pools and for me it was the best ensemble for mommies like me! No need to worry about tummy exposure or clothing malfunctions. If you are worried about fat though, I read something about spirodex, a fat burner that one of my friends mentioned.
All else aside, be prepared when letting your babies experience the water for the first time. NEVER leave your baby in the pool, even with a floating device and concentrate on your baby to avoid untoward incidents.
Happy swimming!
