Recommended Swimming Lessons for Babies and Under 5's

Water Babies Edinburgh

Are you looking for recommended swimming lesson your pre-schooler in and around Edinburgh? The following are classes that have been recommended by parents on Facebooks Edinburgh for Under Fives.

1. Waterbabies

   Age 3mths +

   Novotel, Fountain Park, Dalkeith Hydro, Dalmahoy, Edinburgh Marriot, Braidburn School.

   
   

2. Big Blue Swim

   Age 3.5 years +

   Royal High, James Gillespies, Oakland

3. Merbabies

   Age 6mths +

   Abbeyhill, Braidburn, Holiday In, Dalkeith, Damhead, Hilton

   
   

4. Zest Of Energy Exclusive Swim School

   Age 6mths +

   Damhead, Energize Health & Fitness

   
   

5. Stepping Stones Swimming Lessons

   Non-swimmer +

   Bannatyne Livingston, Dalkeith High School Campus,Dalmahoy Country Club, Energize Health & Fitness, Leith Academy, Queensferry High School

   
   

6. Puddle Ducks

   Age 6mths +

   Nuffield Health Edinburgh Fountain Park, Nuffield Health New Mart Road

   
   

7. Swim Easy

   Age 6mths +

   Braidburn, Craigroyston Community High School, Edinburgh University St Leonard's, Forrester High School, George Watson's College Centre For Sport, James Gillespie's High School

   
   

8. Turtle Tots

   Age Newborn +

   Damhead, Juvenate, Beeslack High School, Oaklands, Novotel Edinburgh Park, Delta Marriott, Sciennes Primary School, Braidburn School, Nuffield Fountain Park

   
   

9. Swim with Lauren

   Age baby +

   Barony Castle, Beeslack High School, Damhead, Energize

   
   

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Considerations: when choosing swimming lessons for babies and preschoolers.

• Parent Participation: Some classes encourage parent participation, which may be beneficial in building confidence and trust in water.

  
  

• Scheduling and Location: Choose a class that is convenient for your schedule and location.

  
  

• Trial Class: Many facilities offer a trial class allowing you to observe the instructor and the environment, and assess if the class is a good fit for your child.

  
  

• Reviews and Recommendations:Check online reviews and ask for recommendations from friends, family, or your parent groups.

Instructor Qualifications and Experience

• Certified Instructors: Look for instructors certified by reputable agencies. These certifications ensure a certain level of training and adherence to safety standards.

  
  

• Background Checks: Inquire about the instructor's background checks, ensuring the safety and well-being of your child.

Class Size and Environment:

• Small Class Sizes: Smaller classes allow for more individualised attention and safer supervision.

  
  

• Safe and Clean Environment: The pool and surrounding area should be clean, well-maintained, and free from hazards. Check for proper safety equipment like lifeguard presence and readily available first aid.

  
  

• Warm Water Temperature: Babies and preschoolers are more comfortable in warmer water temperatures.

Curriculum and Teaching Methods:

• Age-Appropriate Curriculum:The curriculum should be specifically designed for babies and preschoolers, focusing on water acclimation, safety, and basic skills. It shouldn't be overly intense or push development too quickly.

  
  

• Positive Reinforcement: Look for instructors who use positive reinforcement techniques, building confidence and making learning fun for the child. Fear is counterproductive; encouraging a positive relationship with water is key.

  
  

• Emphasis on Water Safety: The lessons should prioritise water safety, including teaching children how to enter and exit the pool safely, how to float, and what to do if they fall in.

  
  

Remember, the goal is to create a positive and enjoyable experience for your child, building confidence and comfort in the water, while ensuring a safe environment focused on water safety skills.