Movement Is Life: Why Early Water Experiences Matter for Babies

by : Anat Fedorov, owner of Aquababy in Montreal
 

“What can a newborn possibly learn in the water?” 

It is one of the first questions parents ask when they hear that babies can begin water activities so early. 

My answer is always simple. Movement is life. 

From the moment babies are born, their brains begin learning through movement. Every stretch and every change in position sends information through the nervous system to the brain. These small movements may look effortless, but they are actually helping the brain organize coordination, balance, and body awareness. 

Hi everyone, my name is Anat Fedorov, owner of Aquababy in Montreal, alongside its founder, my mom, Victoria Fedorov. Our program has been introducing babies to the water since 1989, and one of the areas we specialize in is working with newborns, starting as early as two weeks old. 

During the first months of life, babies experience something truly remarkable called neuroplasticity. Their brains are incredibly adaptable and constantly forming new neural pathways based on the experiences they encounter. The richer and more varied those experiences are, the more opportunities the brain has to develop healthy patterns of movement and coordination. 

This is one of the reasons water can be such a beautiful environment for early development. 

In water, gravity is reduced, allowing babies to move more freely than they can on land. Their muscles activate gently and their joints explore a greater range of motion in a soft, supportive environment. What may look like leisurely play is actually the brain, nervous system, and body working together to build coordination, breathing patterns, and body awareness. 

Parents are not simply holding their babies in the water. They are actively guiding the movement. The way a parent holds their baby, the rhythm they create, and the calm flow through the water all influence how the baby experiences the exercise. When the movement remains smooth and relaxed, babies organize their breathing, muscles, and coordination without stress. 

Another aspect that is very important to us is educating parents from the very first class. In the first minutes, we explain what are commonly called dives or submersions. I often like to say, let’s de-dramatize something here. The idea of putting a baby underwater can feel like a big step at first, but with the proper explanation and guidance, parents quickly realize it is actually quite simple. And sometimes I remind parents with a smile that babies spent nine months floating in amniotic fluid before they were born, so in many ways, water is not a completely new place for them. 

And if you happen to be that parent who feels a little unsure, that is perfectly okay. Our goal is always to guide you gently, at your own pace, while respecting your limits and comfort zone. 

Beyond the developmental benefits, something meaningful is also happening between parent and baby. Moving together in the water builds trust, communication, and confidence for both. These early moments often become the foundation for a lifelong love of the water.