Katy Holland: Activity holidays for babies

Are we there yet? Fun holidays for energetic tiny tots

My inbox has gone a little quiet since the festive season. Most of you are still snoozing off the Christmas pud. But one or two have woken up. Lisa Craig from Southampton says that, in a sudden burst of energy, she decided she wants to know about activity holidays for babies. Yes, really. In my extensive experience, the best holiday activity for babies is sleeping. Lots of it. With a few sandcastles and paddles in the sea in between.

But modern parents tend to be rather more demanding in their quest for adventure. As Lisa puts it: "Sadie [her eight-month-old baby] has lots of energy and I'd like to find a baby-friendly holiday where we can really have some fun."

Lisa, I've got the perfect thing: a baby swimming camp. Honestly, it's the latest craze. This year, family specialists Eurocamp (0844 406 0402; www.eurocamp.co.uk ) and Keycamp (0844 406 0200; www.keycamp .co.uk ) are running swimming sessions for babies from birth onwards at a selection of campsites across France. Fully qualified instructors from the Swimming Teachers' Association will be on hand to offer free lessons and lots of fun.

My favourite is Keycamp's L'Atlantique at Beg-Meil in Brittany, where there are daily Waterbabies sessions as well as lots of other activities for the more energetic tiny tot to get stuck into.

Prices start at less than £500 per week per family, and it's right on the beach so there are plenty of opportunities for those first paddles and sandcastles. It's the ideal holiday for adventurous babies and their parents.