Health

On Call: Water Babies

By Dr. Claire McCarthy, Parenting
 


Share
Q. Is it safe for us to take our 5-month-old into our backyard pool with us?

A.
If he likes it, there's no reason he can't join in the fun. But your hands and eyes should be on him at all times when he's in the water. And when he's near the pool, don't leave him alone, not even for a moment.

If the water feels cool to you, limit his time there so he doesn't get uncomfortable, and take him out immediately if he starts to shiver, look pale, or get cranky. Keep his head above the water so the chlorine doesn't sting his eyes. And put a swim diaper on him instead of a regular one; it'll keep you safe if he poops while in the pool. Always bundle him up in a dry towel as soon as he gets out.

Since you own a pool, be sure to follow these safety suggestions from the American Academy of Pediatrics:

* Surround it with a fence at least four feet high that locks.

* Keep rescue equipment (like a shepherd's hook or a life preserver) and a telephone by the pool.

* Remove all toys and other objects from the pool after use so your child isn't tempted to reach for them.

* Don't rely on flotation devices like wings to keep babies above water  -- they're toys, not safety equipment.

* Anyone watching young children around a pool should learn CPR and be able to rescue a child if needed.


PRINT

Comments

No comments yet. Log in or register below to be the first.
Quick Poll

Which is the most offbeat celeb baby name:

Apple
Ryder
Shiloh
Kal-el
Other (tell us in the comments!)


ADVERTISEMENT
Popular on Parenting.com
Popular on Parenting.com
 
Photo Galleries

4 Games That Might Make Your Baby Smarter

These simple, classic baby activities may help your child's math skills, and they're fun too!

promotion
 
Baby Names

Test Drive Your Baby Name

See what your baby's first, middle and last name would look like in handwriting, on a business card and more

Blog: Project Pregnancy

Jennifer Johnson: "Cravings are just one of the things I'm trying to get used to. Along with cankles... These aren't pretty." Updated frequently!

Blog: The Parenting Post

My Brown Baby: "If I don't know your mama, I haven't been to your house for any significant length of time, I haven't a clue who all lives there, and your kid's home-training is a little questionable? Nope -- my kid's not coming over." Updated daily!
Contests

Our Beautiful Baby Search Winner!

Congratulations to Maggie Sue Romeo of Braselton, GA -- she has won $125,000 towards her college education
Mom Congress

Win a Free Trip to Washington, D.C.

We're sending 51 amazing moms to the capital for our first annual Mom Congress -- find out how you can be one of them