I had a general information about baby swimming from my acquaintances in Athens and various magazines. When my little boy turned 4 months old, I began to eagerly look for swimming pools and places suitable for his first contact with water. Unfortunately, however, to my regret, I found that Thessaloniki was far behind Athens in this area. There were only 2 swimming pools suitable for baby swimming in Thessaloniki, and one was outside the city's urban complex. My second and last choice was the facilities of a large group, which I inevitably ended up with.
Fortunately, however, on a sunny day in September 2011, a smiling girl offered me a brochure, politely asking me, “Have you heard of baby swimming?” She informed me about ICHTHEIS, a new group with a vision, whose facilities were in a central hotel in the city. She also informed me that I could visit them to learn more, as well as to get to know their space up close. I immediately visited the space with great curiosity, especially after they informed me that the facilities were located in the city center, in the Egnatia Palace Hotel!
My surprise was great! Just the fact that you enter a place where you are greeted – even from the entrance – with a big smile, fills you with well-being and joy for what you are starting to do. Entering the pool facilities, you simultaneously enter a relaxation area, since the lesson is accompanied by relaxing music that calms and soothes the child, as well as his other three fellow athletes. The classes are small, 4 people, and this is very important, both for the children and for the parents participating in the lesson. You find a changing table and a storage box always available and the sanitary areas (showers and changing rooms) always clean. As for forgetful mothers, there are always caps, slippers and essential items for the child's hygiene. Our coach, Nikolas, is a smart person, loved by our little pups and most importantly: well-trained and always with new ideas, enthusiasm and zeal for his work!
Of course, I don't know what to mention first for the benefits of swimming!!! The increase in the mobility of our little treasures is the least of it! The quality of their sleep improved and their immune system was strengthened, resulting in us seeing our beloved pediatrician less. All of this was the main reason for me to send – without a second thought – my little princess, from just 5 months old, to the aquarium and to share this experience with you!
George and Helen.
6/3/13
English 
Greek