4) WHAT TO WEAR?
Linus first used swimming diaper from Mothercare wich he outgrew at 5months n thereafter a bodysuit which actually keeps him warmer n now he can stay an hour in the pool.

5) POOL ACTIVITIES
From 1mth+ till about 6mths, I support Linus under the armpits and just walked around the pool singing songs with modified swimming lyrics eg ‘I am kicking my little feet, I am keeping quite a beat, I am splashing with my toes, See how far the water goes….’ to the tune of Twinkle2 Little Star. At this age he naturally floated horizontally (I think the swim diaper helped coz got air trapped inside). We have a routine from the start - I walk into the pool holding him close. Slowly wet ourselves, all the time rubbing him to keep warm. Then I’ll say ‘Watch Mummy Peekaboo?’, go underwater in front of him n emerge with eyes wide open n smiling. I do that 3 times then I’ll say ‘Now Linus’s turn to Peekaboo’. I’ll bounced him once, twice then dunk him on the third. After a while he will know how to anticipated the dunk. Also, when time is up, stop b4 baby is ready to stop even though he’s enjoying himself tremendously.

6) FLOATS?
Couldn’t find any floats which could fit his tiny arms till about 6mths. Bought the Arena 0-12mths armbands. Review - very good balance n easy to blow. At 9mths changed to bigger armbands, original ‘Floaties’ brand. Review - although softer material n comfortable, quality control poor and difficult to blow.