Choosing a suitable pool for baby swimming

There are a number of important points you should bear in mind before you select a pool in which to teach your child. Think of the care that you put into looking after your baby, and make sure that this extends to choosing a suitable swimming pool for your baby. Take your time and carefully check out the pools near where you live. The pool and changing facilities must be clean, and the water clean, clear, and warm.

 

Other points to consider are:

• the deck, locker room, and shower areas should be well maintained and safe
• stroller access should be available with adequate space on decking areas
• decking should have good drainage so that it is not slippery
• the pool should be a comfortable depth for your lessons
• disinfectant levels must be sufficient to eliminate the risk of infection but should not irritate your child
• indoor pools should be adequately ventilated so there are no overpowering chemical smells
• outdoor pools should have some shade
• the lifeguards should be trained in CPR and First Aid and should be helpful, friendly, and informative
• an emergency telephone should be close by

As well as the above, make sure that the pool opening times are convenient, and that there is safe parking and access to the pool.

You will need a minimum area of 8 x 8 feet (2.4 x 2.4 m) if it's just you and your baby; and for a small group you will need at least 15 x 15 feet ( 4.6 x 4.6 m). You will most comfortable holding your baby in waist - to chest-deep water, but should usually be around 3 1/2 - 4 feet deep. It is best to use an area of the pool with an even depth or a very gradual slope. The pool should also have a ladder or step access (pool steps can also be used for a number of activities). The pool water should be clear enough so that you can easily see the bottom of the pool. Acceptable pH levels are between 7.2 and 7.8, with 7.4 to 7.6 as ideal. Last but not least you should be aware of the temperature, both water and air temperature. Ideally, the water temperature in the pool should be very warm for babies, and 90 - 93 degrees F (32 - 34 degrees C) is optimal. The air temperature in indoors pools should be at least 75 degrees F (24 degrees C), which will be a comfortable temperature for you in a dry bathing suit before you enter the pool. You should swim, ideally, in the same temperature in outdoors pools, with sunny skies and little or no wind, so there is no wind chill.