Baby Swimming Lessons
Safe, warm, and qualified instruction from 3 months. Gardens Centre, Cape Town.
Swimming is one of the most valuable life skills you can give your child, and the earlier you start, the better.
Our baby swimming classes welcome little ones from just 3 months old. Classes are kept small, with a maximum of 8 babies and a parent in the water alongside each baby, led by STA-accredited teachers who understand how to work with babies in the water safely and confidently.
Our pool is heated to 32°C and uses an ozone filtration system with salt chlorination, producing hypo-allergenic water that's gentle on sensitive baby skin and eyes. No rashes. No red eyes.
A parent or guardian joins their baby in the water for every baby class. The adult in the pool does need to be water confident, and from there it is about warmth, play and having fun together.
Baby Classes by Age
Babies are grouped by age, not by ability, so every lesson is pitched at the right stage. A parent or guardian is in the water for all three classes, and that adult does need to be water confident.
Beginner Baby
Gentle water familiarisation with a parent in the water. Comfort, warmth and trust from the very first lesson.
Intermediate Baby
Floating, kicking and playful movement, with breath control and submersion introduced at the right stage for your child.
Advanced Baby
Growing independence in the water, with water safety basics and plenty of play. This is the stage that builds towards our toddler bridging class, and caps and goggles are encouraged.
What to Expect
- Gentle water familiarisation, building comfort and confidence from the start
- Breath control and submersion (at the right developmental stage)
- Floating, kicking, and early movement skills
- Songs, play, and sensory activities that make it fun for baby and parent
- Small class sizes so your baby gets individual attention
- STA-accredited teachers throughout
Frequently Asked Questions
What age can babies start swimming lessons?
We welcome babies from 3 months old. Classes are grouped by age rather than ability: Beginner Baby from 3 months to 1 year, Intermediate Baby from 1 to 2 years, and Advanced Baby from 2 to 3 years.
Do parents go in the water?
Yes, a parent or guardian is in the water for all baby classes. The adult in the pool does need to be water confident, as you will be holding and supporting your baby throughout the lesson.
Is the pool safe for babies?
Yes. Our pool is heated to 32°C and uses an ozone filtration system with salt chlorination, hypo-allergenic water, gentle on sensitive skin and eyes. We operate to European health & safety standards.
Are there changing facilities for babies?
Yes, spacious changing rooms with hot showers and baby changing facilities.
What does my baby need to wear?
- Swim nappies are required unless your child is fully potty trained.
- A full body costume is preferred where possible.
- Swimming caps and goggles are encouraged for Advanced Baby classes.