Babies & Toddlers
GOswim for Babies & Toddlers
Help your child become comfortable and confident in and around the water by enrolling into our Infants or Preschool GOswim program at Pelican Park Recreation Centre!
Lessons are designed for babies 6 months to 5 years, catering for infant, toddler and preschool participants attending with their parents/guardians or appropriate adult carers.
We understand that your first lessons can be slightly daunting but with a fully trained and accredited swim teacher present at all times there is nothing to worry about.
Infant lessons are structured and designed with you and your baby in mind. With a gentle introduction into the water in a safe and welcoming environment, infants can start to enjoy the water from birth.
Preschool lessons for children 3 to 5 years are held in our leisure pool and transitioned to the main pool throughout the devleoping levels.
Please be aware that parents should have an understanding of water skills and safety that they can introduce to their child.
Did You Know?
When babies and toddlers repeat an action over and over, they’re starting to master a new skill and working towards strengthening their neural pathways.
Our program is amazing for familiarising your child with the water and for early childhood development.
You can get your baby prepared for swimming before you even get to the swimming pool. Use bath time at home to get your baby used to the feeling of splashing and being immersed in water.
Revitalisation Works
Essential maintenance and renewal works at Pelican Park Recreation Centre have now commenced. Aquatic programs & services have relocated to Crib Point Outdoor Pool, Group Fitness Classes have commenced across Hastings Community Hub & Somerville Recreation Centre & our Pop Up Gym located at 21 High Street, Hastings. Mornington Peninsula Shire will provide regular updates as the enhancement of the facilities progresses and we will keep members updated regarding operational updates over this period.
FAQS: GOswim during Revitalisation works Expand all
How long will Crib Point Pool be open for GOswim lessons?
Crib Point Pool opening hours and dates have been extended to accommodate all swimmers including the GOswim program during the time of Pelican Park Recreation Centre closure. The water at Crib Point Pool is heated to 29 degrees, the changerooms are heated and floodlights have been installed. The revitalisation works at Pelican Park commenced 11/01/2025 and the temporarily closure is estimated to be 6 months.
Can I still book into GOswim lessons?
Yes, we are still taking enrolments as normal. Please call us on 8727 8980 or submit an online enquiry here and one of our friendly team will be in contact.
What happens to our lesson if it is raining?
Our GOswim program will continue to run at Crib Point Pool during rain and cold temperatures. The water temperature is heated to 29 degrees. As per our Water Temperature Policy, if the water temperature falls below 27 degrees, GOswim classes will be cancelled until the water temperature increases to 27 degrees & above.
Participants will be notified via phone if their class is affected by our Water Temperature Policy.
If there is a thunderstorm, our 'Flash-to-Bang' Lightening Policy will come into effect. The Guidelines of Safe Pool Operations developed by Royal Lifesaving Australia, state that closure of an outdoor swimming pool should be undertaken when lightning is within 10kms of the facility.
A 'flash-to-bang' measurement of approximately 30 seconds indicates that the lightning is 10km away. A measurement of 30 seconds or less requires that immediate action be taken.
Once lightning has moved greater than 10km away or has subsided, people may return to normal activity. As a general rule, pool activities should remain suspended until thirty minutes after the last thunderclap is heard.
Notice of an immediate facility closure due to the 'Flash-to-Bang' Lightning Policy will be announced on our Facebook page here. The post will be updated when the facility re-opens.
Can I cancel GOswim lessons when it gets too cold?
Yes, you can cancel or suspend your GOswim lessons at any time during the temporary re-location to Crib Point Pool. Once a re-opening date for Pelican Park Recreation Centre has been confirmed, we will be in contact to resume your GOswim lessons.
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Join GOswim Program
It's never too early or too late to become confident in and around the water. Join Pelican Park GOswim program today.
GOSWIM FAQs Expand all
How do lessons for babies and toddlers work?
Parents are in the water supporting their child, whilst a qualified swim teacher guides the group through relaxed, fun activities.
Sessions are held weekly and involve a 30-minute routine consisting of holds, floating, pre-conditioning, submersion and water safety. Most infants, though not all, will reflexively hold their breath when submerged to protect their airway.
However, it’s important to note that while babies can imitate swimming motions and reflexes, they’re not yet physically capable of swimming.
What are the benefits of lessons for babies and toddlers?
We often spend less quality time than we would like with our kids. Unfortunately, it is an effect of being so busy with work and other lifestyle factors.
Spending time with your child in the pool means they have your undivided attention for the duration of the class. Other benefits for your child include:
- Building water confidence early
- Improving coordination and balance
- Helps to build muscles
- Water play can improve their sleeping pattern
- Can improve a child’s appetite
