Blogs

All the latest news and chat about
our Baby Squids swimming lessons.

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Why an understanding of Neurodiversity is VITAL in children’s swimming lessons?

This blog is written through personal experience of working with children for years and owning my own neurodiverse child. I am not a professional - but I do know some fantastic ones I’ll reference at the end.

Why an understanding of Neurodiversity is VITAL in children’s swimming lessons?

This blog is written through personal experience of working with children for years and owning my own neurodiverse child. I am not a professional - but I do know some fantastic ones I’ll reference at the end.

New Lessons coming to Basingstoke and Leatherhead

I am thrilled to introduce Hannah as our new Baby Squids Surrey and North Hampshire franchisee. She is starting brand new classes in Basingstoke and Leatherhead across three wonderful pools in mid January 2024.

New Lessons coming to Basingstoke and Leatherhead

I am thrilled to introduce Hannah as our new Baby Squids Surrey and North Hampshire franchisee. She is starting brand new classes in Basingstoke and Leatherhead across three wonderful pools in mid January 2024.

Swimming Lessons in Weymouth Starting January 2024

I am delighted to introduce Jenna and her new franchise area with her first set of lessons starting at Moonfleet Manor in Weymmouth in January 2024. Very exciting for the West Dorset area!

Swimming Lessons in Weymouth Starting January 2024

I am delighted to introduce Jenna and her new franchise area with her first set of lessons starting at Moonfleet Manor in Weymmouth in January 2024. Very exciting for the West Dorset area!

Autism Awareness Day – A Baby Squids Swimming Teacher Story

I am delighted to introduce a really lovely blog written by our wonderful teacher Naomi who has three awesome boys, two of which have Autism and have needed additional support. This honest account of swimming lessons I hope will help other parents in learning how to support children further in

Autism Awareness Day – A Baby Squids Swimming Teacher Story

I am delighted to introduce a really lovely blog written by our wonderful teacher Naomi who has three awesome boys, two of which have Autism and have needed additional support. This honest account of swimming lessons I hope will help other parents in learning how to support children further in the water. By Naomi Hardy, a swimming teacher with Baby Squids

Franchisee No. 4 – Welcome Viki

Welcome to Viki, our fourth Baby Squids franchisee! Viki is now the brilliant owner of the East Hampshire postcode area licensed to run Baby Squids classes, across Portsmouth, Gosport and Titchfield.

Franchisee No. 4 – Welcome Viki

Welcome to Viki, our fourth Baby Squids franchisee! Viki is now the brilliant owner of the East Hampshire postcode area licensed to run Baby Squids classes, across Portsmouth, Gosport and Titchfield.

Welcoming new franchisee Nicky to Salisbury

I'm so delighted to introduce everyone to Nicky, our third Baby Squids franchisee! Nicky is now the proud owner of the Salisbury postcode area licensed to run Baby Squids classes. It’s likely that 1000’s of customers from over the years will know Nicky as being the amazing Chief Assistant who

Welcoming new franchisee Nicky to Salisbury

I'm so delighted to introduce everyone to Nicky, our third Baby Squids franchisee! Nicky is now the proud owner of the Salisbury postcode area licensed to run Baby Squids classes. It’s likely that 1000’s of customers from over the years will know Nicky as being the amazing Chief Assistant who has supported me in head office for years. I actually don’t know what I’ll do without her as she flies off with her very own business to run. Already having taken on Salisbury during the pandemic she has set herself up with more hours, more pools and new teachers. Nicky is brilliant at what she does, she is calm, patient and supportive and her customer service is beyond outstanding!! Here Nicky tells you a little about herself and why this was the obvious choice.

The top 5 reasons to start baby swimming lessons today

I did a series on Instagram to remember all the reasons why baby swimming is so popular and why parents should take their children swimming. After Covid lockdown 3 it feels pretty hard at the moment to imagine how And by swimming I mean just getting them in the pool

The top 5 reasons to start baby swimming lessons today

I did a series on Instagram to remember all the reasons why baby swimming is so popular and why parents should take their children swimming. After Covid lockdown 3 it feels pretty hard at the moment to imagine how And by swimming I mean just getting them in the pool with their parents and families, not just lessons. I’m delighted to be able to write a little more detail so that parents can learn about the importance of swimming and how they can do some at home in the bath. We’ll all be back in the pool before long and all children will benefit from water play regardless of their age.

Covid-19: Update on our Lessons

All swimming lessons are suspended from 16 March 2020. Coronavirus update following the government announcement this evening.

Covid-19: Update on our Lessons

All swimming lessons are suspended from 16 March 2020. Coronavirus update following the government announcement this evening.

Singing and Swimming

This week's focus is all about singing. We sing every week, so this week we want to remind you why we love singing and some of its great benefits, not just for your little ones but also for you as parents. Singing out loud makes us happy!! What better reason

Singing and Swimming

This week's focus is all about singing. We sing every week, so this week we want to remind you why we love singing and some of its great benefits, not just for your little ones but also for you as parents. Singing out loud makes us happy!! What better reason is there than that? It releases feel good hormones called endorphins that makes us happy and feel positive. Happy parents, happy babies and happy swim teachers!

Can flexible working help me with the “perfect” life balance?

More and more nowadays we hear about life balance in the press and across social media. Everyone seems to be striving for the perfect life balance. Does it exist? Recently, I have been debating internally and probably boring my friends too about whether we are actually better off with the

Can flexible working help me with the “perfect” life balance?

More and more nowadays we hear about life balance in the press and across social media. Everyone seems to be striving for the perfect life balance. Does it exist? Recently, I have been debating internally and probably boring my friends too about whether we are actually better off with the “you can have it all” lifestyle. I think life is all about balance and happiness, but how do you get that in today’s world.

It’s official – our very first franchisee!

Read all about Nadina, our very first franchisee who has taken over the Baby Squids New Forest & Christchurch territory!

It’s official – our very first franchisee!

Read all about Nadina, our very first franchisee who has taken over the Baby Squids New Forest & Christchurch territory!

Start a Baby Squids Franchise Today!

As you have probably seen there has been lots going on at Baby Squids HQ over the last month or so, I just thought it would be a good idea to put pen to paper so you can understand what we are up to. So the culmination of six months

Start a Baby Squids Franchise Today!

As you have probably seen there has been lots going on at Baby Squids HQ over the last month or so, I just thought it would be a good idea to put pen to paper so you can understand what we are up to. So the culmination of six months of hard work is here! I am really happy to announce that our nationwide franchise offering is ready to roll!

Baby Squids is born!

Baby Paddlers has rebranded! And Baby Squids is born! In order to take our swimming lessons wider across the UK we have taken the big step to rebrand!

Baby Squids is born!

Baby Paddlers has rebranded! And Baby Squids is born! In order to take our swimming lessons wider across the UK we have taken the big step to rebrand!

Aqua Sensory Training

This weekend the Baby Paddlers team went further on their journey of discovery into the world of Aqua Sensory®, having completed the initial foundation training in September we headed off to the home of Aqua Sensory at Swim Works in Leamington Spa.

Aqua Sensory Training

This weekend the Baby Paddlers team went further on their journey of discovery into the world of Aqua Sensory®, having completed the initial foundation training in September we headed off to the home of Aqua Sensory at Swim Works in Leamington Spa.

Charity Santa Swim

I'm really pleased that we are able to do the Santa swim this Christmas. The Brain Tumour Research charity got in contact with me to see if we might be interested and I jumped at the chance! I have some personal reasons for wanting to help out.

Charity Santa Swim

I'm really pleased that we are able to do the Santa swim this Christmas. The Brain Tumour Research charity got in contact with me to see if we might be interested and I jumped at the chance! I have some personal reasons for wanting to help out.

Swimming Nappies Explained

Facts and myths debunked as we explain why we use baby swimming nappies, the difference between over nappies and under nappies, different environmental nappy options and what to do if you spot a nappy leak!

Swimming Nappies Explained

Facts and myths debunked as we explain why we use baby swimming nappies, the difference between over nappies and under nappies, different environmental nappy options and what to do if you spot a nappy leak!

Baby Swimming Songs for our babies and pre-schoolers

Some baby swimming songs we use at Baby Squids during our swimming lessons, feel free to learn them word for word!

Baby Swimming Songs for our babies and pre-schoolers

Some baby swimming songs we use at Baby Squids during our swimming lessons, feel free to learn them word for word!

First Trip to the Swimming Pool

Some tips for taking your baby or child swimming for the first time. Our tips concentrate on how to get the most out of your first trip to the swimming pool with your baby.

First Trip to the Swimming Pool

Some tips for taking your baby or child swimming for the first time. Our tips concentrate on how to get the most out of your first trip to the swimming pool with your baby.

When can I take my baby swimming?

In a warm pool (32c+) & armed with a baby swim nappy then we'd definitely advise you try, newborn swimming lessons are a lovely experience as a new parent.

When can I take my baby swimming?

In a warm pool (32c+) & armed with a baby swim nappy then we'd definitely advise you try, newborn swimming lessons are a lovely experience as a new parent.

Why teach your child to swim?

Learning to swim from a young age is so important! There are so many benefits to starting swimming lessons with your baby or toddler, see our top ones here.

Why teach your child to swim?

Learning to swim from a young age is so important! There are so many benefits to starting swimming lessons with your baby or toddler, see our top ones here.

New Mum, New Swimming Teacher

I’ve recently qualified as a baby & toddler swimming teacher and loving it. I'm really passionate about this & really looking forward to this new challenge

New Mum, New Swimming Teacher

I’ve recently qualified as a baby & toddler swimming teacher and loving it. I'm really passionate about this & really looking forward to this new challenge

Water related fun for you children this summer

Swimming tips for summer from Baby Paddlers. We've collected a handful of water based fun for your active little people.

Water related fun for you children this summer

Swimming tips for summer from Baby Paddlers. We've collected a handful of water based fun for your active little people.

Special Summer Holiday Week at Bishops Waltham

We'll be running special summer holiday swimming classes this summer for the week 14 - 18 August 2017 at our lovely, warm private pool in Bishops Waltham

Special Summer Holiday Week at Bishops Waltham

We'll be running special summer holiday swimming classes this summer for the week 14 - 18 August 2017 at our lovely, warm private pool in Bishops Waltham

Introducing your baby to the swimming pool

Our thoughts on introducing your baby to swimming; how to ensure your baby is warm & safe with a fun, assuring introduction to newborn swimming lessons

Introducing your baby to the swimming pool

Our thoughts on introducing your baby to swimming; how to ensure your baby is warm & safe with a fun, assuring introduction to newborn swimming lessons

The Water Wobbles

Swimming is not all about doing lengths! It is so much fun, we write here some tips about having fun swimming with your toddler!

The Water Wobbles

Swimming is not all about doing lengths! It is so much fun, we write here some tips about having fun swimming with your toddler!

Winter Swimming Tips

Swimming during the cold weather is really good for you both physically and mentally. This type of exercise can really help boost your immune system.

Winter Swimming Tips

Swimming during the cold weather is really good for you both physically and mentally. This type of exercise can really help boost your immune system.

Swimming from Birth

We write about swimming from birth based on some recent experiences of newborns only a few days old in our swim classes. Such great parent and baby bonding

Swimming from Birth

We write about swimming from birth based on some recent experiences of newborns only a few days old in our swim classes. Such great parent and baby bonding

Fun swimming with your toddler

Consistency is key to so your child continues to have fun whilst swimming. Whilst our baby swim classes are progressive, this is always with lots of fun!

Fun swimming with your toddler

Consistency is key to so your child continues to have fun whilst swimming. Whilst our baby swim classes are progressive, this is always with lots of fun!

The bath and baby swimming lessons

What we recommend when introducing your baby to the water for the first time. Baby steps in order to build progression and confidence!

The bath and baby swimming lessons

What we recommend when introducing your baby to the water for the first time. Baby steps in order to build progression and confidence!

Jungle Charity Swim Week – 4th July to 10th July 2016

We are swimming for a few charities this week. Named the Jungle Swim all our children will be swimming the Amazon to raise money for SIX local charities!

Jungle Charity Swim Week – 4th July to 10th July 2016

We are swimming for a few charities this week. Named the Jungle Swim all our children will be swimming the Amazon to raise money for SIX local charities!

Swimming on Holiday

Whether an outdoor pool or a heated indoor pool, swimming usually play a big part in people’s holidays. I think this is a great opportunity and here's why!

Swimming on Holiday

Whether an outdoor pool or a heated indoor pool, swimming usually play a big part in people’s holidays. I think this is a great opportunity and here's why!

Fantastic Paddlers!

Some of our fantastic Baby Paddlers showing us what they have been up to in their swim classes this week, some great Milestones achieved!

Fantastic Paddlers!

Some of our fantastic Baby Paddlers showing us what they have been up to in their swim classes this week, some great Milestones achieved!

Why our Customers LOVE Baby Swimming

Our customer, Lindsay has written a baby swimming class review for our blog, and we were delighted to see such great feedback, makes us very happy!

Why our Customers LOVE Baby Swimming

Our customer, Lindsay has written a baby swimming class review for our blog, and we were delighted to see such great feedback, makes us very happy!

Why we LOVE Baby Swimming classes

There are fantastic benefits to baby swimming, & we hear many reasons why people come to our swim classes. We've shared our favourite swimming loves here

Why we LOVE Baby Swimming classes

There are fantastic benefits to baby swimming, & we hear many reasons why people come to our swim classes. We've shared our favourite swimming loves here

Making Friends

Baby swim benefits; exercise, health benefits, water safety, confidence, learning to swim etc. A group of Mum's reminded me how good classes are for making friends!

Making Friends

Baby swim benefits; exercise, health benefits, water safety, confidence, learning to swim etc. A group of Mum's reminded me how good classes are for making friends!

Swimming Gift Vouchers!

Want to buy somebody some swimming classes for Christmas or Birthday present? We offer flexible swimming gift vouchers in all denominations.

Swimming Gift Vouchers!

Want to buy somebody some swimming classes for Christmas or Birthday present? We offer flexible swimming gift vouchers in all denominations.

Baby Swimming Salisbury – New Classes start after Xmas 2015!

New Salisbury newborn baby, toddler and pre-school swimming classes for 0-4 years old, starting after Xmas 2015, based at Salisbury District Hospital.

Baby Swimming Salisbury – New Classes start after Xmas 2015!

New Salisbury newborn baby, toddler and pre-school swimming classes for 0-4 years old, starting after Xmas 2015, based at Salisbury District Hospital.

Your baby’s natural reflexes

Babies have many natural reflexes from birth. We write about how these in the context of when babies are swimming and how these natural reflexes manifest

Your baby’s natural reflexes

Babies have many natural reflexes from birth. We write about how these in the context of when babies are swimming and how these natural reflexes manifest

Baby Swimming Totton – New Classes on Thursdays from 24th Sep!

Hi all! Just to let you know that we have some new Totton baby swimming classes that begin this Thursday. Swimming classes will run between 4pm and 6pm being run by Emma. The first date for these new classes is 24th September 2015.

Baby Swimming Totton – New Classes on Thursdays from 24th Sep!

Hi all! Just to let you know that we have some new Totton baby swimming classes that begin this Thursday. Swimming classes will run between 4pm and 6pm being run by Emma. The first date for these new classes is 24th September 2015.

Why I love teaching children to swim!

Laura and a customer write about what they love most about their swimming lessons and why being a baby swim instructor is the best job in the world!

Why I love teaching children to swim!

Laura and a customer write about what they love most about their swimming lessons and why being a baby swim instructor is the best job in the world!

The Importance of Swimming as a Family

How important is it to go swimming as a family whilst your kids are young? It's not ALL about swim lessons, family enjoyment at the local pool is key too.

The Importance of Swimming as a Family

How important is it to go swimming as a family whilst your kids are young? It's not ALL about swim lessons, family enjoyment at the local pool is key too.

Early Years Swimming Confidence

The statistics are scary but reality, I read a report recently stating more children aged 2-5 can open a web browser than swim unaided for a short distance

Early Years Swimming Confidence

The statistics are scary but reality, I read a report recently stating more children aged 2-5 can open a web browser than swim unaided for a short distance

Baby Swimming Bournemouth – Brand New Wednesday Classes Start after Easter 2015

Just to let you know that we have some new Bournemouth baby swimming classes starting after the Easter break on Wednesday mornings between 10am and 12pm

Baby Swimming Bournemouth – Brand New Wednesday Classes Start after Easter 2015

Just to let you know that we have some new Bournemouth baby swimming classes starting after the Easter break on Wednesday mornings between 10am and 12pm

Our New Website is Live!

Our New Website is Live!

Baby Paddlers are STA Swim Star Swim Schools!

We're thrilled that Baby Paddlers high standards have been independently assessed and have been accredited by the STA Swim Star Schools programme.

Baby Paddlers are STA Swim Star Swim Schools!

We're thrilled that Baby Paddlers high standards have been independently assessed and have been accredited by the STA Swim Star Schools programme.

New Classes starting at Hoburne Park, Christchurch

New Christchurch & Bournemouth Baby Swimming Classes starting in November 2014 located at Hoburne Park near to Highcliffe on the Dorset & Hampshire border

New Classes starting at Hoburne Park, Christchurch

New Christchurch & Bournemouth Baby Swimming Classes starting in November 2014 located at Hoburne Park near to Highcliffe on the Dorset & Hampshire border