Why Starting Swim Lessons Early Makes a Difference
Introducing your baby to a swim environment early – from around six months old – can offer lifelong benefits.
Caue Tench, who teaches baby swim classes at Coogee, says:
“I see how early swimming creates a great bond between parent and baby. They get to spend quality playtime together, as well as helping the baby to develop water awareness and how to have a good and safe time in the pool.”
There are physical, social and developmental benefits for babies – but first, the conditions have to be right. If the pool water is too cold or the environment is too big, crowded and noisy, it can be overwhelming for a tiny tot. So choosing the right swim school from the get-go is really important.
In many large, public pools, the water is too cold for babies. Water temperature should be around 32°C and no warmer than 35°. Smaller, more intimate pools like the AquaBuddies pool at Coogee don’t echo with loud noise. It is light and airy and offers a calming, welcoming space for babies to experience their first swim with a parent or carer.
All babies should wear a swim nappy. On top of this, a reusable pair of swim pants, neoprene wrap or wetsuit will help maintain body warmth and ensure a more enjoyable experience.
The Whole-Child Benefits of Baby Swimming
1. Physical Benefits of Early Swimming
Infants are born with a kicking reflex, but after around six months this instinct begins to fade. Early water familiarisation helps maintain and strengthen this instinct while promoting muscle development.
Swimming boosts healthy lung and heart development. Babies that begin swimming earlier often have improved coordination and balance—even on land. It’s one of the first opportunities they get to move semi-independently in their first year of life.
Parents also often report better sleep and increased appetite post-swim—thanks to all that energy expenditure in the pool.
2. Cognitive Benefits of Early Swimming
Research from Griffith University shows that children who can swim by age 3 to 5 often reach developmental milestones earlier than their peers—particularly in areas like language, reading, and maths.
Coordinated movement using both sides of the body strengthens neural pathways that support critical higher brain functions. These movements can enhance spatial awareness, language skills, and cognitive development.
3. Social and Emotional Benefits
Infant swim classes involve skin-to-skin bonding, water play, and group songs—fostering trust and emotional security between baby and caregiver.
Babies also observe other infants and instructors, learning early socialisation skills. These experiences are linked to increased confidence, independence, and a desire to succeed as they grow.
For parents, it’s a rare moment of uninterrupted connection and play—something that’s especially valuable in families with multiple children.
Our Water Familiarisation Classes at Coogee
Our baby and toddler swimming programs in Coogee and Bondi are designed to develop water confidence and foundational swim skills—while ensuring lots of fun and bonding along the way.
PINK DUCKLING (6–12 months)
We focus on safe water entry and exits, supported floating on the front and back, and foundational paddling and kicking activities.
YELLOW DUCKLING (12–18 months)
Babies start becoming more independent. Submersion skills are introduced, along with paddling and kicking using a noodle for support.
BROWN DUCKLING (18–24 months)
We encourage more instructor-led activities. There’s a strong focus on water safety, climbing out of the pool unaided, floating, and free-swimming short distances to the pool wall.
STARFISH (2+ years)
For toddlers not yet ready to swim independently. The program builds confidence and prepares children to eventually transition to our CRAB class without a parent in the water. Patience, kindness, and comfort are central to this class.
Got Questions About Starting Baby Swim Classes?
If you have concerns about introducing your baby to swimming, we’d love to help. Our experienced instructors at AquaBuddies Coogee are here to guide you through every stage of your baby’s swimming journey in a warm and supportive environment.
📩 Enquire now about booking your child into one of our gentle, play-based water familiarisation programs today!
