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    Dive into a world of discovery with aqua sensory play classes at Brunswick Baths, Coburg Leisure Centre and Fawkner Leisure Centre.

    Our aqua sensory play sessions are held in our indoor pools, providing a calm, shallow environment where babies can explore, connect and enjoy ‘tummy time’ in the water.

    During the sessions, you'll have access to sensory equipment that enhances our dedicated shallow water pool space. Everything your baby or toddler sees, hears and touches will contribute to a unique and enhanced sensory experience.

    The sessions are suitable for children aged between 12 weeks and three years old. A parent or guardian must also participate in the class.

    Session times

    • Sessions take place monthly

    Price

    • $12.20 (includes one parent and one child)

    Book online

    Online pre-bookings are essential and cover one parent and child. Bookings open one week before the session via our online customer portal.

    If you are booking for the first time, you’ll need to create a parent account first then add the student account for your child. For help using the customer portal, please visit the my account page.

    Aqua sensory play introduces your baby to the water early

    Benefits of starting early include:

    • Reduced risk of drowning: Sessions teach vital survival skills and floating to help your child stay safer in the water.
    • Supports child development: Research shows that learning to swim early helps children get ahead in reading, maths and language.
    • Hit milestones faster: Sessions build core strength and coordination to support your child with crawling and walking.
    • Bond with your baby: Aqua sensory play provides skin-to-skin bonding time that builds trust and confidence.
    • Improved sleep and appetite: Physical activity helps babies eat better and enjoy deeper, longer naps.
    Parent holding a young smiling toddler in a pool

    Frequently asked questions

    • How old must my child be to start aqua sensory play sessions?
      We recommend that you start aqua sensory play sessions after your baby is three months old.
    • Is pool water safe for my baby?
      Yes! Our indoor pools use advanced UV filtration to keep chlorine levels low and water hygienic. For babies with eczema or dry skin, we recommend applying a barrier cream (like Sorbolene) 30 minutes before class.
    • What do we wear and bring?
      • A snug-fitting swim nappy (disposable or reusable) for the water, plus a fresh nappy for afterwards.
      • Two towels (one for baby, one for you).
      • A t-shirt or rash guard / rash vest for you to wear (this gives your baby something to grip as they develop independence).
      • A waterproof bag for your wet gear.
    • Will my child get too cold?
      Our pool is heated to a comfortable 32°C–33°C. We recommend keeping sessions to a maximum of 30 minutes and keeping an eye out for any signs of shivering. 
    • When should I feed my baby?
      It’s best to give a light feed at least one hour before class to avoid tummy upsets. Swimming is hungry work, so have a full feed or snack ready for right after the session! 
    • Do I have to get in the water?
      Yes, a parent or guardian needs to be in the pool to provide that essential skin-to-skin contact and help your baby feel safe and confident. 
    • What if my baby cries?
      Don’t worry, it’s completely normal for babies to feel a little overwhelmed at first. Our instructors will help you follow your baby’s cues. You can always take a ‘time out’ on the side of the pool and use songs and games to keep things positive. 
    • Will my baby be submerged?
      Submersion is introduced very gradually using verbal cues like "Ready, go!" to help your baby learn to hold their breath. We move at your baby's pace and never force submersion if a child is distressed.