Bournemouth Swimming Academy offer sessions each week at Kinson Swimming Pool. A pay as you go, play session:

Tuesday & Thursday 1.30 - 3.00 pm, designed for you and your children (6 months - 4 1/2years) Cost £3.20 

Please feel free to arrive anytime during the above times and join in the fun. These sessions are run by ASA qualified instructors and provide a stimulating environment for learning through songs, actions, games and play.

EQUIPMENT

Babies should wear disposable swim nappies available at Kinson Swimming Pool.

Swim aids are not life preservers and should only be used under the constant supervision of a competent person.

The following accessories can be used to promote water confidence however it is advisable to spend some part of a session without swimming aids.

ARMBANDS: These allow some freedom of movement but their size can be restrictive for babies under 12 months. They should be small enough to stay on and worn above the elbows, with a flat piece under arms. The biggest disadvantage is that children can become dependant on them and reluctant to take them off. Always try to spend part of the session with no aids.

RUBBER RINGS: Great care should be taken when using rings. They are not a good idea for small babies as they can easily fall out. If used with armbands it can sometimes raise the body too high to find balance in the water. These are best suited to the older child and allow freedom for arms and legs.

BABY FLOATS: For babies who can sit but weigh no more than 25lbs (11kgs). These have inflatable chambers to support the upper body and leg openings to allow room for kicking. They should only be used for a short period to prevent baby from becoming too cold.

AQUA PACKS, POLLYOTTER SUITS AND SWIM JACKETS:

These are inflatable packs, which strap to the back of the child or are floats placed in the pockets of a costume. The pressure of the water can push the pack up near the neck and make the child swim vertically although arms and legs are not restricted allowing more freedom of movement.

DISCS: Virtually unbreakable small disc which are easily fitted. Three on each arm is normally adequate for a beginner and as the child progresses the number of discs is reduced.

Swimming is very valuable for children; it increases their safety, gives them enjoyment and helps to keep them fit. The first step towards learning to swim is to feel at ease in the water. Confidence and progress grow when a parent/family member introduces them to water.

 For health and safety reasons it is not advisable to start swimming too early. Babies have little immunity to disease and chill very easily. A good time to bring them to the pool is following completion of their set of injections. To establish water confidence it is good to put baby in the “big bath” at home before you bring them to a pool.