New parents are often warned about the dangers of leaving a baby alone in the bathtub. But what about water safety beyond bath time — on family vacations, at the lake, or even in your own backyard?
For families who love spending time in the water, safety doesn’t end with bath time. While most guidance focuses on tub supervision and bath seats, many parents also want to enjoy the pool or spa together as a family.
Whether you’re gently splashing in the shallow seat area or simply helping your baby get used to the feel of water, these early moments play a big role in building a positive connection with swimming that can last a lifetime.
A Michael Phelps Signature Swim Spa offers a safe, calm environment to begin that journey. With full control over temperature and water quality, you can stay close, stay present, and enjoy those first swims with peace of mind.
When can babies go in the pool?
Introducing your baby to water might feel like second nature if you’re a swimmer or just love the water yourself. But most pediatricians recommend waiting until your baby is around 6 months old before taking them into a pool.
By this age, babies usually have better head and neck control, which is critical for staying safe and supported in the water. They’re also better able to regulate their body temperature, reducing the risk of getting chilled during swim time.
Another important factor is their developing immune system. Waiting until around 6 months allows babies to build more resistance to the common germs and bacteria that can be present in pool water, even when the pool is well-maintained.
If you’re eager to start earlier, talk with your pediatrician. Every baby grows at their own pace, and your doctor can guide you on what’s safe for your little one.
How to safely introduce your baby to water
Babies aren’t born swimmers, but they are naturally curious. As a parent or caregiver, your job is to make water experiences feel safe and comforting.
Here are some tips to help your baby ease into the water:
Start slow: Keep the first few sessions short and simple. It’s important to focus on comfort rather than skills.
Stay close: Holding your baby close provides security. Skin-to-skin contact in the water can also be calming.
Watch the temperature: Aim for 85 to 87 degrees Fahrenheit, which is ideal for infants.
Keep their head above water: Avoid submerging your baby’s head to keep them safe.
Skip floatation devices: Water wings or puddle jumpers can give a false sense of security and hinder natural movement.
Let them explore: Support gentle floating, movement, and splashing at their own pace with your hands-on guidance.
If your baby seems unsure or fusses, that’s perfectly normal. Keep the mood light and try again another day. Building comfort in water is a gradual process.
Infant water safety starts with you
No matter how calm or controlled the water environment is, nothing replaces constant adult supervision. Drowning remains the leading cause of accidental death for children ages 1 to 4, according to the CDC.
The Michael Phelps Foundation teaches families the “ABCs of water safety,” a simple but powerful way to think about drowning prevention, especially as your child grows and starts exploring more independently.
A is for adult supervision.
Young children should never be near water without an adult. Even shallow water can be dangerous if no one is watching. That means staying within arm’s reach, especially with infants, and putting phones and distractions away.
If you’re at a gathering or pool party, assign a dedicated “water watcher” — someone who knows that their only job at that moment is to keep an eye on the kids in the water.
B is for barriers.
At home, make sure your swim spa or pool is always covered and locked when not in use. Michael Phelps Swim Spas have lockable covers that make it harder for children to open the spa. For an added layer of protection, you can move the steps away from your spa or install fencing with self-closing, self-latching gates.
And don’t forget to remove toys or floatation devices after swim time. These can tempt a curious toddler to reach or climb back into the water unsupervised.
C is for classes.
When your baby is ready, look for age-appropriate swim lessons that emphasize water comfort and body awareness — not just “how to swim.” The goal is to help your child feel balanced, safe, and confident in the water. It’s also a good idea for parents to brush up on swimming skills and learn CPR. In an emergency, those minutes matter.
What’s age-appropriate for swim lessons?
Swim lessons for babies aren’t about learning strokes or swimming on their own. Instead, they focus on the basics: comfort in the water, gentle movement, and early safety skills.
Most infant programs begin around 6 months, when babies are better able to control their head and body. These early lessons often include:
- Helping your baby feel buoyant and move naturally in the water.
- Building confidence through positive, hands-on experiences.
- Practicing habits like breath control and turning with support.
- Introducing your baby to water in a structured way can reduce fear, promote safety, and lay the groundwork for confident swimming later on. Basic skills like floating and turning — while taught with help — can also be important in an emergency.
If you have a swim spa at home, you can even schedule private lessons with an instructor. This one-on-one setting can help your baby focus, stay calm, and enjoy the experience without distractions.
A foundation for water confidence
Water can be a joyful, bonding part of your family’s life but it also deserves your full attention. With the right approach, you can help your baby feel secure and supported from their very first splash.
By introducing them to water in a Michael Phelps Signature Swim Spa, you’re creating a space where safety and connection come first. With controlled water chemistry, customizable features, and a private setting for supervision or lessons, a home swim spa is a smart, confidence-building choice for growing families.
Contact your local Master Spas retailer to learn more about swim spa ownership. Wondering how much a Michael Phelps swim spa costs? You can request a quote here.