How to Introduce a Baby to a Pool

If your family loves the water, introducing your little one to the pool may be one of the items on your "Baby's Firsts" checklist. But before you get your little guppy in the water, take the time to help your little one warm up to the idea and play safely. Even if you don't have a pool in your backyard, introducing your baby to water play can start at home before you make the transition to a pool.

Instructions

    • 1

      Start the introduction at home by putting your baby in the bath, suggests Dr. William Sears in an article for Parenting.com. By having positive interactions with water at home, your baby may be calmer when entering a pool for the first time. Try reclining in the bath with your baby against your chest or allowing him to play with a wet washcloth to get used to the sensation of water.

    • 2

      Select a pool that is heated. Cold water can be uncomfortable for babies, especially because their bodies lose heat more quickly than adults' do, notes the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents. You may also find that chlorine dries out your baby's skin, so keep some baby lotion on hand.

    • 3

      Dress your baby in a swim diaper and a set of plastic pants with elasticized legs. Disposable swim diapers offer convenience since they don't need to be laundered, but they may not keep fecal matter securely in the diaper, warns the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Adding plastic pants can help keep the rest of the swimmers safe from waterborne illness. Check your baby's swim diaper often and change him quickly if you notice that it's soiled.

    • 4

      Hold your baby under his arms or against your chest as you enter the pool. Look for a quiet, calm area with little splashing so your baby can enjoy the water. You can bounce slightly to help your baby get used to the sensation of the water -- chances are that he'll kick his legs and splash around too.

    • 5

      Use a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket if you'd like, but if you're holding your baby securely in shallow water, it may not be necessary.

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