Dublin's Premier Baby Swimming Schools
Specialised instructors and purpose-built facilities designed specifically for babies, toddlers, and young children. Start your little one's aquatic journey with confidence.
Baby swimming is one of the most rewarding activities you can introduce to your little one. From building water confidence and essential safety skills to strengthening the parent-child bond, these specially designed programmes create positive associations with water that last a lifetime. The schools featured below are Dublin's most trusted providers, each offering unique approaches to gentle, age-appropriate aquatic learning for babies and toddlers.
3 providers available
Water Babies
World's #1 Baby Swimming School
The world's number one baby swimming school with multiple locations across Dublin. Specialising in babies from birth to 4 years, Water Babies creates magical bonding experiences between parent and child through expert teaching, songs, play, and gentle repetition.
First Swim
Ireland's First Purpose-Built Baby Swimming Centre
Ireland's first purpose-built baby and toddler swimming centre located in Sandyford. Designed specifically for the needs of babies and toddlers, offering a unique parent-baby bonding experience with warm pools and a child-friendly café for relaxation.
Turtle Tots
Multi Award-Winning Programme
Multi award-winning baby, toddler and preschool swimming lessons across Dublin. Their unique child-led programme runs from 3 months to 5 years, with world-class teachers specialising in water safety and lifesaving skills through songs, games, and play.
Why Start Baby Swimming Early?
Parent-Child Bonding
Skin-to-skin contact and focused time together builds stronger emotional connections and attachment.
Water Safety
Early water exposure prevents fear development and teaches essential safety skills from the start.
Physical Development
Swimming strengthens heart, lungs, and muscles whilst improving coordination and balance.
Brain Development
Water movements strengthen brain connections, potentially advancing mathematical and reading abilities.
Social Skills
Group classes help babies develop social interaction skills and parents meet like-minded families.
Confidence Building
Mastering new skills in water builds overall confidence and willingness to try new experiences.
Baby Swimming Age Guide
0-6 Months
Gentle water introduction, supported floating, bonding activities
6-18 Months
Water confidence building, basic movements, safety awareness
18 Months-3 Years
Independent movements, following instructions, water games
3-5 Years
Swimming strokes, diving, treading water, advanced skills
Frequently Asked Questions
When can my baby start swimming lessons?
Babies can start swimming from birth! Most programmes accept babies from 6-10 weeks old, once they've had their first immunisations. The earlier you start, the more natural water feels to your baby, as they're already familiar with the aquatic environment from the womb.
Is it safe for babies to go underwater?
Yes, when done properly by qualified instructors. Babies are born with natural reflexes that help them hold their breath underwater. Professional baby swimming programmes use gentle, gradual techniques to maintain these reflexes safely whilst building confidence.
What should I bring to baby swimming lessons?
Bring a well-fitting swim nappy, towels for both you and baby, a change of clothes, and any comfort items like a favourite toy. Many centres provide additional equipment, but check with your chosen school about what's included.
How warm should the pool be for babies?
Baby swimming pools should be maintained at 30-32°C (86-90°F), which is warmer than regular swimming pools. This temperature helps prevent babies from getting cold quickly and ensures they remain comfortable throughout the session.
What if my baby cries during lessons?
It's completely normal for babies to cry occasionally during lessons. Qualified instructors are experienced in reading baby cues and will adjust activities accordingly. Most babies settle quickly once they become familiar with the routine and environment.
How long are baby swimming sessions?
Baby swimming sessions typically last 30 minutes, which is perfect for little attention spans. This duration allows time for warm-up, activities, and cool-down without overwhelming your baby or causing them to become too cold.
Ready to Start Your Baby's Swimming Journey?
Give your little one the gift of water confidence, safety skills, and lifelong love of swimming. Dublin's expert baby swimming instructors are ready to welcome you both.