As an emerging nursing method, baby swimming aims to simulate the intrauterine environment and promote the intellectual and overall development of babies through their autonomous movements. However, this activity is not without risks:
The structural differences between babies and adults are significant, with the baby’s skeletal system still in the early stages of development, especially the neck being fragile. During swimming, a large part of the body weight needs to be borne by the neck, which may lead to damage to the spinal nervous system and even leave long-term health issues.
Using neck float swim rings is a popular choice for many parents, but finding a swim ring that perfectly fits the baby’s neck can be challenging, improper sizing may pose safety risks. Being too large can lead to slipping, while being too small can compress the baby’s neck, both of which cannot be ignored.
Furthermore, water activities may also increase the risk of otitis media in babies, as water entering the ear canal is not easily expelled, leading to infections. Babies may feel uneasy while swimming, showing fear and crying, parents need to patiently guide them, helping them gradually adapt to the water environment.
In conclusion, although baby swimming has its benefits, it also comes with certain risks. Parents should consider all aspects when choosing, ensure safety measures are in place, and carefully observe the baby’s reactions to protect their healthy growth.