Hellobee Boards

Our pedi said we could do it at 3 months, but I've heard really varied recommendations. I think ultimately it comes down to what you're comfortable with.

LO was 5 months when she first went into the pool and it was fine. Even with her eczema, she was okay. Just thoroughly wash/rinse/moisturize after.

LO was in a chlorinated pool for the first time at 3.5 months but he doesn't have any skin issues. My DH actually dunked him underwater last weekend (@4.5 months) and he did great!

My parents have a pool and I was thinking of taking DS in it soon (he's 8 weeks). We're going to be there this weekend and it's going to be HOT so maybe will try then. He likes the bath so I figure he will probably like the pool and I know my mom doesn't over chlorinate the pool.

I agree with Skibobrown--it really depends on when YOU are comfortable. At the private swim school my family works at, the staff members' kids usually start between 4-6 weeks, some even earlier, but I'd say the majority of "students" start mommy & me classes around 3 months. My daughter was 3 months when we first took her in our neighborhood pool, and I am not worried about the chlorine, although I do rinse her off in the outdoor shower before we go home! I think the AAP doesn't recommend infant swimming until 6 months because they are concerned about water intoxication, but if you are properly watching and interacting with your child in the water and making sure they aren't drinking it, I don't think there is anything to worry about. We dunk my daughter's face in for a second (1-2-3 eyes wet!) approximately 4-5 times per 20-30 minute session in the water so she will retain her dive reflex and learn to hold her breath. She's been doing this for about 2 weeks now and sticks out her tongue--doesn't swallow any water. We've seen no skin issues, and I'm sure she's not drinking much, if any.