Baby swimming – A mother’s story: Nina Mihas

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Is your baby ready for swimming? When is the right time for that first experience in the water? If you ask mom Nina Mihas, her answer is simple: It’s never too early, and never too late.

Her little girl arrived at her first baby swimming class with curiosity, and just a bit of caution—like most little ones who are about to dip their toes into the world of structured water activity for the very first time.

“She wasn’t really afraid, since she’d already had some experience with water. But yes, there was a little hesitation until she started to relax. The curiosity was there from the start—and it only grew with every class. At the beginning, toys in and around the pool were a big help in easing her into it. They helped her forget about any tiny fears.”

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Baby swimming – shared moments that stay with us

For Nina, baby swimming is more than an activity. It’s a special part of the day she and her daughter share—just the two of them, in the water, learning and discovering together.

“I’m one of those moms who’s pretty much glued to her child. We do everything together, so being apart during class wasn’t even an option. During the sessions, she would constantly look for my feedback, just to check if I was watching and noticing her.”

That connection—of being seen and supported—can be just as important as any swim movement a child learns. For some kids, and some parents, baby swimming is simply another form of communication.

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The trainer – more than just a guide in water

While knowledge and expertise matter, Nina believes it’s not just the method that makes baby swimming effective—it’s the trust, energy, and relationship between child, parent, and coach.

“Water is water, and the pool is the pool—just like a gym is a gym. Yes, the trainer matters. But what really makes a difference is our own mindset, our effort, and commitment. Of course, the coach’s patience and ability to engage the kids helped my daughter a lot—he knew how to make her laugh and feel relaxed. But we as parents also need to support our kids, fuel their interest, and really listen to what they enjoy—and don’t enjoy—in the water.”

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The benefits don’t stop at the pool’s edge

Many parents notice that swimming classes bring far more than better motor skills. Sleep improves. Appetite improves. The whole rhythm of the day feels calmer. Nina noticed the same changes with her daughter.

“After class, she always eats well—which is actually a big deal for her, because she usually eats small portions. Then she falls asleep quickly, sometimes even in the car right after the session.”

But the impact goes beyond the physical. It’s in the way swimming becomes part of a child’s play, imagination, and identity.

“Swimming has become a part of her world now. She plays pretend at home—she’s the trainer, she copies what he says and does. Every night before bed, she mentions her swim friends or something that happened at class. It’s sweet. It’s not just a habit—it’s a bond she’s forming.”

Rituals that bring comfort and connection

Swimming with your baby can become more than just an activity—it can grow into a family ritual. Something that brings everyone closer and gently shapes the day. For Nina and her daughter, there’s a cozy post-swim routine:

“After class, we rush home for food and then straight to bed. On swim days, she falls asleep nearly an hour earlier than usual.”

These small rituals make big memories.

A message to parents who are still unsure

To moms and dads still wondering if baby swimming is the right choice, Nina has a heartfelt message:

“It’s never too early, and never too late. We need to introduce our children to water—sooner or later. Someone who can’t swim, to me, is like someone who doesn’t know how to run. I believe knowing how to move in water is just as important as moving on land. Just look at the planet—we’re surrounded by water. We have to learn how to befriend it.”

And for those worried about how to make it work with their baby’s nap schedule, Nina offers a simple truth:

“With tiny babies, yes, it’s a bit tricky because they nap more often. You’ll need to find a time that works for your little one. But every parent finds their own rhythm. That’s how your own baby swimming story begins.”

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Baby swimming – One step at a time, together

Nina Mihas’ experience shows that baby swimming is not just about water. It’s about connection. It’s about discovering your child in a new way, supporting them as they grow, and building rituals that strengthen your bond.

It’s about courage, smiles, and tiny splashes that lead to big memories.

If you’ve been wondering whether baby swimming is the right move for your family—maybe this is your sign.

Take the leap. Together.

Because life’s better when you are swimming!