Fabrics as new material resources for the optimization of development in the aquatic environment in infants

Abstract

Background: At the time of birth, due to their evolutionary immaturity characteristics, babies need a safe context and environment that can provide tranquillity and well-being through gentle and controlled stimulation.

Goals: On the one hand, carry out a bibliographic review to analyze the lines of research that use the use of tissues in the aquatic environment as a tool that favors the well-being of the baby. On the other hand, make a practical proposal as a resource to provide a useful tool for the aquatic educator favoring the integral development of the child.

Method: The search was carried out through the databases Pubmed, Science Direct, Discovery UMH, ResearchGate and academic Google, limiting itself to studies in English, Spanish and Portuguese published in the last 20 years.

Results: Three lines of approach stand out regarding the use of fabrics: the swaddle bath, the positioning used, and neonatal hydrotherapy. Being the basis for the elaboration of the practical proposal.

Conclusions: The use of fabrics is presented as a resource very little studied in the aquatic environment with great potential and versatility. However, there is little evidence that focuses on the benefits of this material in water.

Keywords: Babies, Water, Swimming, Aquatic Therapy, Bonding, Education, Fabrics.