Since bringing Harper home from the hospital hubby has been itching to toss him in the pool and see if the whole dive reflex thing really exists. In theory, every newborn until about the age of 6 months is equipped with a reflex that causes them to hold their breath when underwater. I’ve been absolutely freaked out by the idea of doing any sort of “testing” on the little one and have hoped that hubbies enthusiasm would be satisfied with their nightly bath/swim time.
Harper absolutely loves this time with his papa and is so completely relaxed in the water. He stretches his legs out, floats on his back with just a finger of support behind his head and even turns his head from side to side to dunk his face (this also freaks me out). It seems our little man is just as much of a fish as his mama and papa and this past weekend mama finally had the courage to let papa do some experimenting.
I held my breath as we warmed up the spa to a lukewarm temperature and undressed Harper. The big moment was approaching much faster than I had prepared myself for. I tried to stall as any mama would when faced with something scary and her babe but hubby persisted. They started off slow with the well practiced back float and Harper continued to amaze me with his calmness.
I sat on the sidelines, biting my lip as hubby slowly guided Harper through the water. Side to side, around and around he floated, staring up at the bright blue sky. I was daydreaming about what Harper might be thinking when before I could even protest hubby had dunked Harper!
To my surprise he was fine! Actually he was more than fine he was swimming! Eyes wide open, blowing bubbles and wiggling his body to the surface…my little boy can swim! It is absolutely mind blowing to watch how natural Harper seems to be in the water. He is so mellow and acts as if nothing big or terrifying or even uncomfortable is happening. It took me a few dunks to get my own nerves in check but now I can sit back and just watch in amazement as my little boy becomes familiar with one of my great loves and peace centers…the water.
