Practice Swimming at Home - No Pool Needed!
At Swimming Safari, we believe progress continues outside the pool, too! While nothing replaces professional instruction, there’s so much you can do at home—whether it’s in the bathtub, kiddie pool, or even on dry land—to reinforce what your child is learning in class.
Here’s a breakdown of at-home activities by swim level, from our youngest babies to our adult learners:
Aqua Bloom (3-6 Months)
Gentle bonding for mom and baby.
- Tummy Time in Warm Water: Use a bath tub to practice water tummy time. Place them in your lap, keeping an eye on their mouth to ensure their mouth is above the water.
- Songs & Splashing: Sing bath-time songs with gentle splashes. Use toys to capture attention and help babies associate water with joy.
- Sensory Water Play: Let your baby gently feel warm water poured down their back or arms using a small cup.
💡Keep the mood peaceful. Smiles and giggles = water confidence.
Splish‑Splash Babies 1 (6-12 Months)
Focus: Comfort, breath control, supported submersion.
- Cues for Breath Holding: Practice the verbal cue “1,2,3!” followed by a quick sprinkle of water over their face.
- Back Floats with Support: In the tub, support your baby’s head and bottom and let them float while you sing softly.
- Face Dips: When your baby is ready, allow brief, gentle face dips (always with a breath cue and within comfort level).
💡Repetition helps with reflex retention and comfort underwater.
Splish‑Splash Babies 2 (12-24 Months)
Focus: Movement through the water, supported glides, rolling to back.
- Wall Holds: In a tub or kiddie pool, help your child “monkey walk” along the edge using their hands.
- Kicking Practice: Lay your child on their back or belly and encourage flutter kicks.
- Tummy-to-Back Rolling: Gently guide them from tummy to back in the water and praise them for the roll.
💡Use familiar class songs for consistency and connection.
Jungle Tots and Splish‑Splash Toddlers (2-4 Years)
Focus: Water safety, floating, breath control, gaining independence.
- Bubble Blowing Races: Have your child blow bubbles for as long as they can while you count out loud.
- Kick & Glide Practice: From a sitting or supported belly position, practice strong kicks and reaching arms.
- Back Float Assistance: Use a shallow tub or play pool to work on relaxing on the back with light support.
💡Songs, toys, and praise helps keep little ones engaged.
Happy Hippos (4+ Beginner)
Focus: Floatation, short glides, and propulsion.
- Beginner Float: Have your child lie on their back on a soft surface (like a bed or couch) and stretch out “like a starfish.” Talk about relaxing their body and keeping their tummy up—this builds body awareness and confidence in the float position.
- Roll to Float: Practice having them lie on their belly, then gently guide them to roll over onto their back. Use simple phrases like “roll like a log” and “find your float.” You can even turn it into a fun game on a yoga mat or towel.
- Kicks: Sit on the edge of the tub, couch, or bed and encourage your child to practice “splashy toes” or “fast kicks” with straight legs and pointed toes. Keep it fun by kicking to music or racing against a timer!
- Paddle Arms: Stand in front of a mirror and practice slow, exaggerated “reach and pull” paddle arms.
💡Keep it short, fun, and repeat often - building muscle memory!
Mighty Monkeys (Intermediate)
Focus: Freestyle with side breathing, backstroke, independence.
- Side Breathing Drills: In the tub or while lying flat, practice blowing bubbles and turning head to "breathe air."
- Leg Kicks with Straight Legs: Have your child sit on the tub edge and kick fast with toes pointed.
- Backstroke Arms on Land: Lying on the floor, practice alternating arm movements with straight arms.
💡This is where technique and endurance begin to form—every bit helps!
Terrific Tigers (Advanced)
Focus: Longer distances, stroke technique, diving, endurance.
- Mirror Check: Practice freestyle and backstroke arms in front of a mirror.
- Kick Practice – Pillow Kicks:Have your swimmer lie tummy-down on a pillow with their legs hanging off the edge of a couch or bed. Practice tight, fast flutter kicks while keeping knees straight. You can even place a small stuffed animal on their feet—if it falls off, they’re bending their knees!
- Endurance Practice – Swim Circuit Challenge: Create a "swim fitness" obstacle course around the house: 20 flutter kicks lying on their back, 10 arm pulls, 15 seconds holding plank (builds core strength!). Repeat the whole circuit 3–4 times for a fun and active endurance booster
💡Small drills = strong swimmers.
Amazing Alligators (Advanced Stroke Technique)
Focus: Endurance, legal strokes, turns, and technique mastery.
- Stroke Shadowing: Watch videos of proper strokes, then mimic motions slowly in front of a mirror.
- Wall Kick Sets: Do kick reps on the edge of a tub—15 seconds on, 10 seconds rest, repeat 4×.
💡Technique + focus = swim team readiness!
Adult & Teens (13+ Years)
Focus: Stroke mechanics, confidence in deep water, endurance.
- Breath Timing: Practice exhaling underwater (in the bath or shower) and inhaling quickly through the mouth.
- Arm Stroke Drills: Use slow-motion arm movements for freestyle and backstroke while standing.
- Treading Water Motions: Sitting on a chair, simulate eggbeater kicks and sculling motions with your arms.
💡Visualization + muscle memory = faster progress in the pool.
Bonus Tips for All Ages:
- Keep Sessions Short: 5–10 minutes is plenty—end on a positive note.
- Use Props: Bath toys, plastic cups, mirrors, or kickboards add fun and engagement.
- Celebrate Success: Clap, cheer, and reward progress (no matter how small!).
Practice Makes Progress
The more your child is exposed to the water in a safe, playful, and positive way, the more confident they’ll become. Whether it’s their very first float or perfecting their freestyle arms, home practice helps cement what they’re learning in class.
If you’re ever unsure what skills to focus on for your child’s level, don’t hesitate to ask our staff, they love to share personalized homework ideas!
Confidence in Small Steps Every child faces moments that feel big and a little scary. Without gentle opportunities to practice bravery, those fears can grow. How Swimming Builds Courage Swim lessons provide safe, structured ways for babies to: Try new things like back floating or going under briefly Gain independence by moving toward a parent or toy Take turns and share space with others Each small victory builds resilience and self-assurance. Beyond Swimming Confidence gained in the pool carries over into everyday life. From learning to walk, to making friends, to starting school, courage grows with every splash. Pro Tip: Celebrate effort, not just achievement. “You tried so hard!” is just as powerful as “You did it!” Start building your child’s confidence now. Book a free trial class at Swimming Safari.
The Risk Parents Don’t Expect Water is one of the leading risks for young children. Many parents wait until their child is “older” to think about lessons—but water safety habits can start long before then. What Babies Can Learn Early Even before their 2nd birthday, little ones can: Practice short moments of breath-holding Get comfortable floating on their backs Turn toward a parent or the pool’s edge for safety These are taught gently, through games and songs that feel natural and fun. Why Early Matters The earlier your baby begins, the more confident and comfortable they’ll be in the water as they grow. That confidence means safety and peace of mind for you. Pro Tip: Practice blowing bubbles in the bath; it’s the perfect way to introduce breath control. Give your baby a safe start in the water. Join us for a free trial class.
Why Early Development Matters The first two years of life are when your baby’s brain develops faster than it ever will again. Every experience sounds, movements, touches builds connections that shape their growth. How Swimming Boosts Development Swim lessons engage your baby in all areas at once: Cognitive: Following songs, cues, and instructor guidance. Physical: Building strength through kicking, splashing, and reaching. Emotional: Feeling secure in your arms while trying new challenges. Social: Watching, imitating, and playing alongside peers. Beyond the Pool The skills your baby practices in the water, focus, coordination, and confidence, translate into learning and growth in every part of their world. Pro Tip: Celebrate every small splash; encouragement builds confidence that sticks. Want to see your child’s giggles turn into growth? Book a free trial class today.
The Problem with Going It Alone Parenting a little one can sometimes feel isolating. Babies who only interact with family members may also miss out on early opportunities to practice social skills. How Swim Lessons Help Babies Socialize Watch & Learn: Babies naturally imitate others, seeing peers splashing builds excitement. Shared Play: Passing toys or playing group games introduces sharing and teamwork. Group Listening: Following instructor-led songs helps babies practice focus in a fun way. The Bonus for Parents Swim classes aren’t just for babies, they’re for you, too! You’ll meet other families, share stories, and build a network of support that understands your parenting journey. The Long-Term Payoff Early social experiences help your child develop confidence, empathy, and communication skills that last well beyond swim lessons. Pro Tip: Say hello to another parent in class, you might walk away with both a swimming partner and a new friend. Discover the joy of swimming and socializing. Book your free trial lesson today.
Why Motor Skills Are Important From rolling over to crawling, every new movement strengthens your baby’s body and brain. These skills are also the foundation for confident swimming. Without practice, babies can feel frustrated as they try to master big new milestones. Simple Ways to Build Motor Skills at Home Reach & Grab: Place toys in shallow water for your baby to grab, building strength and coordination. Kick & Splash: Hold them gently on their back and let them kick—great for leg strength and future swim strokes. Roll Over Play: Practice rolling on a mat or soft surface to mimic the pool skill of turning over for safety. Motor Skills in Swim Lessons Swim lessons enhance these natural milestones with songs, games, and guided movements. The water adds gentle resistance, helping babies develop strong muscles while having fun. Pro Tip: Cheer for every little success. Encouragement builds your baby’s confidence to try again. See your baby’s motor skills soar in the pool! Join us for a free trial class .
Why Bath Time Matters Bath time isn’t just about keeping your baby clean—it’s an opportunity for learning and development. Babies who regularly experience water in a fun, playful setting are less likely to develop fear of the pool later on. Build Confidence Through Play Pouring Water Gently: Start by letting water trickle over their shoulders or arms to reduce sensitivity. Bubble Blowing: Encourage your baby to blow bubbles in the water—it’s a fun introduction to breath control. Floating Toys: Place toys slightly out of reach to practice splashing, grabbing, and hand-eye coordination. The Long-Term Benefit Playful water exposure turns the pool from something scary into something familiar. When swim lessons begin, your baby will already feel comfortable and excited about water. Pro Tip: Keep it fun and short; just a few minutes of water play can make a huge difference. Ready to build on bath time skills? Book your free trial class at Swimming Safari Swim School.
Does the thought of your baby’s first swim lesson make you a little nervous? You’re not alone! Many parents wonder how to prepare their child so the pool feels safe, fun, and familiar. The good news is you already have the perfect practice pool: your bathtub. 3 Bath-Time Games That Prepare Your Baby for Swim Lessons The Waterfall Game – Gently pour water over your baby’s shoulders and head. Encourage blinking and smiling. This builds comfort with water on the face. Bubble Blowing – Demonstrate blowing bubbles in the water. Even if your baby doesn’t copy right away, they’ll watch, learn, and eventually try. Toy Diving – Drop a toy that floats and encourage your baby to reach and grab it. This strengthens motor skills and introduces early submersion concepts. Why Bath Practice Works It’s a familiar, safe space for your baby. Short, playful exposure reduces fear. Builds a foundation that makes swim lessons smoother. Parent Tip Make bath practice consistent by ending each bath with one quick “game.” That way, it becomes part of the routine, not something new or scary. Bath time is more than just bubbles, it’s an opportunity to build water confidence that sets your child up for success in swim lessons. Want to see these skills in action? Book your free trial swim class today!
The first two years of life are full of incredible growth. From rolling over to crawling, walking, and eventually running, babies are learning new skills at lightning speed. But did you know that water play can actually support these milestones? Why Water Play is So Beneficial Water is a unique environment that challenges your baby’s muscles, balance, and coordination in ways land-based play can’t. 3 Ways Swim Lessons Boost Milestones Kicking Builds Strength – Holding your baby under the arms and letting them kick in the water helps strengthen core and leg muscles, which are essential for crawling and walking. Reaching Builds Coordination – Babies practice hand-eye coordination when reaching for floating toys. This supports fine motor skill development. Singing Builds Language Skills – Songs and rhymes in swim class support rhythm, repetition, and vocabulary, all important for language development. Social and Emotional Benefits Group lessons also provide early exposure to peers, helping babies learn trust, confidence, and the beginnings of social interaction. Why Timing Matters Babies’ brains are most adaptable before age 2. Introducing safe, structured water play during this window means faster learning and longer-lasting confidence. Swim lessons aren’t just about safety, they’re about supporting your baby’s whole development. Want to see how we combine safety + development? Come try a free class with us!
When you think of keeping your baby safe, you might picture outlet covers, stair gates, or car seats. But did you know the leading cause of accidental death for children under 4 is drowning? For parents of babies and toddlers, water safety needs to be at the top of the list, whether you have a backyard pool or just a bathtub. The Truth About Drowning It’s fast: It can happen in less than 30 seconds. It’s silent: There’s no splashing or yelling, and children slip under quietly. It can happen anywhere: Pools, bathtubs, even small buckets of water. 3 Ways to Keep Babies Safe Around Water Touch Supervision – Always keep your baby within arm’s reach when near water. Even a “quick second” to grab a towel can be too long. Create Early Water Rules – Use a consistent phrase like “Wait for Mommy/Daddy” before entering the water. Babies may not fully understand yet, but consistency builds safety habits. Enroll in Swim Lessons Early – Lessons for babies under 2 focus on comfort, safety awareness, and respect for water, not just “swimming.” These early exposures can save lives. Why Early Swim Lessons Matter Water safety isn’t something that starts at age 4 or 5, it begins the moment your child is mobile. The earlier they are introduced to water in a structured, safe way, the more confident (and safe) they will become. Water safety doesn’t need to be scary. With simple habits and professional guidance, you can enjoy family pool time with peace of mind. Ready to take the next step? Book your baby’s free trial swim class today!
Parenting is one of the most rewarding journeys you’ll ever take, but let’s be honest, it can also feel overwhelming at times. Between work, family responsibilities, and the daily challenges of raising kids, stress can creep in quickly. The good news? You don’t have to overhaul your entire life to feel calmer and more in control. Small changes in your mindset and routine can make a big difference. Here are six practical tips to help reduce stress and create a more joyful parenting experience: 1. Shift Your Focus to What You Can Control Parenting comes with a million moving parts, but not all of them are within your control. Instead of stressing about everything at once, focus on what you can manage in the moment, your reactions, your tone, and the expectations you set. Letting go of the rest creates space for peace. 2. Establish “No Stress” Zones Designate times or places in your home where stress doesn’t get to enter. This could look like device-free family dinners, calm bedtime routines, or even a cozy corner where everyone can relax. These moments help your child (and you!) feel more connected and at ease. 3. Take Regular Breaks It’s okay to step away when you need to. A quick walk outside, a cup of tea, or even a few minutes of deep breathing can work wonders for your patience and energy. Taking care of yourself helps you show up as the parent your child needs. 4. Simplify Your Schedule Look at your family calendar. Does every activity really need to be there? Saying “no” to nonessential commitments creates more room for rest, play, and connection. A lighter schedule can reduce stress for the entire family. 5. Practice Gratitude At the end of the day, reflect on what went well. Maybe your child tried something new, you shared a laugh, or you simply made it through a tough day. Focusing on these positives shifts your mindset and helps keep stress in perspective. 6. Connect with Your Child Remember: presence matters more than perfection. Whether it’s reading a book together, playing a game, or having a heart-to-heart, these small moments of connection mean more than a packed to-do list. The Bottom Line: Parenting doesn’t have to feel like a constant race. By making small adjustments - focusing on what you can control, creating calm spaces, and carving out time for gratitude and connection - you’ll not only feel less stressed but also find more joy in the everyday moments of raising your little one. Want a simple way to simplify your schedule and connect with your child? Swim lessons at Swimming Safari provide life-saving skills while giving you both meaningful, focused time together. Click here to sign up for a free trial lesson today!
