Mark Zuckerberg‘s streak of cute candids with his daughter continues!
The Facebook founder shared a photo on Sunday (on Facebook, of course) of him and Maxima in the water together.
“Max’s first swim,” he captioned it. “She loves it!”
The ICYTALES team advises (based on surveys) to keep these points in mind while introducing a baby to the pool:-
1. Start in the bathtub. It’s an easy and convenient way to get your baby accustomed to the water. Hop in there with them to create a safe and fun environment. To get them used to the feeling of water on their head, fill a cup and gently pour it over their hair, letting it cascade over their face as well.
2. Time it right. You can introduce your baby to the water as early as you think is comfortable for them, as long as their belly button or circumcision has healed. Remember, the younger a child is, the more comfortable she’s likely to be in the pool. However, always check in with your pediatrician before you start.
3. Check the temperature. Babies can’t regulate their body temperature and adults, so 92 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal because it’s close to a baby’s natural body temp. If the water at your pool is cooler, you can still take your baby in, but you may need to take them out every 10 minutes or so to warm their body. Pay attention to their lips, fingers, and toe color and if it turns purplish, take the baby out of the pool.
4. Bond with your baby. You or another adult should always be in the water, holding your baby. Not only is it safe, but carrying your baby skin-to-skin and interacting with him in the water will strengthen your bond.
5. Say no to floaties. Water wings and other flotation devices give a false sense of security. Plus, they keep a baby in a vertical position; however, the horizontal position is the best for swimming.
6. Take a stance. Once in the water, choose a position that’s comfortable for both you and your baby. For example, hold your baby on his back, supporting the back of his head and buttocks. You can also hold your baby under his armpits, either face-to-face or with the baby looking out. In any position, move about the pool so that the baby can feel the sensation of the water on his body. In a kiddie pool or other shallow water, hold under your baby’s armpits and squat, so you’re at his level.
7. Make it fun. While you’re in the water, sing songs or play games such as motorboat to keep the baby entertained. Keep a smile on your face and talk or sing in a soothing voice, especially if your baby is reluctant to be in the water. Seeing your smiling face will assure him that this is a safe and fun environment.
8. Follow your baby’s lead. Some babies take to the water immediately; others are more hesitant. It’s important to follow your baby’s cues and not push her to try anything she’s not ready for. If your baby starts to cry or get fussy, take her out to warm up, offer her something to eat, and let her rest.
Last Updated on by Steffy Michael
