do baby naturally know how to swim?

Your baby does have a natural ability to swim, but she needs your help. Her natural ability comes from a pair of reflexes she has when she's in the water. These reflexes are strongest in her first six months and are: Swimming reflex. If you support your baby in water tummy-side down, she will move her arms and legs in a swimming motion. Dive reflex. Your baby will hold her breath and open her eyes when she's under water. You can get the same reaction by gently blowing in your baby's face.