Don’t Get Caught Out - What To Pack For a Baby For Swimming For a Fun-Filled Day!
Introducing your little ones to the pool at an early age will build their confidence in the water and give them a head start in grasping the basics of swimming. But what do you need to pack for your baby's swimming lessons? We’ve put together a list of the essentials below and, for more details, read on for advice and tips to ensure your lesson goes as smoothly as possible.
- Swimming nappies
- Swimming costume
- Floating toys
- Hooded towel
- Wet wipes and cream
- Change of clothes
- Snacks
- Your Essentials
Our Baby Swimtime classes are designed for you, as well as your child. We'll help your little one to feel fully at ease whilst they get to grips with taking a dip.
Bringing them swimming for the first time is a special experience that you’ll likely cherish for years to come. It’s a great opportunity to bond with your baby and is also a brilliant way to meet other parents with children of a similar age. The specialist instructors running our Baby Swimtime sessions also make sure they are a lot of fun!
But as all new parents know, taking a baby out anywhere can be stressful at the best of times, with a long list of items needed to keep them happy and entertained throughout the day.
1. Swimming Nappies
Be sure to pack some swimming nappies to keep your baby squeaky clean, and other pool users happy whilst enjoying time in the water. You can pick up disposable packs from most supermarkets or find lots of reusable options online.
Disposable swim nappies are designed for one time use. This should be enough for a dip in the pool, though it's worth squeezing an extra one into your bag to ensure you're well prepared. Wearing wet disposable swim nappies for long periods of time out of the water can be uncomfortable for baby, leading to nappy rash or chafing, which also makes for a sulky swimmer!
Reusable swim nappies work just like regular swimwear so shouldn’t cause soreness or rubbing if worn outside of the water. They dry super quickly, so if it takes a while for you to shower and change after a swim, there'll be less chance of an uncomfortable bottom whilst they're waiting on their post-swimming groom.
Disposable and reusable swim nappies are NOT designed to hold in urine so be sure you take your child for regular potty breaks or switch to a normal disposable nappy when they’re not in the pool.
Remember to bring some normal nappies for when it’s time to get them changed.
2. Swimming costume
Although our pools are heated, it may still be a good idea to kit your little one out with a wetsuit to keep them extra toasty whilst they gain their confidence. Opt for something that doesn't overly restrict their movement, which can make getting used to the water all the more tricky.
There are some great fleece-lined swimsuits that cover baby's arms and legs. Great for providing extra warmth so that they can enjoy longer sessions in the pool. Look for baby wetsuits made from neoprene as this material provides extra toastiness.
Newborn babies often have sensitive skin, so all-in-one swimwear will help protect their skin by ensuring barrier creams protect against irritation from the chlorine in our pool.
3. Floating Toys
If baby has a favourite rubber duckie or floating bath toy, feel free to bring it with you to encourage them to feel comfortable in the water. Floating toys are a great way to build confidence, by encouraging little ones to reach out for them or swim towards them.
4. Hooded Towel
Getting your baby a hooded towel is a quick and easy way to keep them warm and comfortable and let them dry off when it’s time to get out of the pool. Bring an extra small towel to swap them onto, to wick away any remaining moisture before baby is dressed.
5. Wet Wipes & Cream
A pack of wet wipes are a must for change times, plus your usual barrier cream to keep their skin protected against the pool's chlorine.
6. Change of Clothes
Take warm clothes to help baby keep snug after a swim and include a few spare items just in case. A hat is also a good idea in winter as babies lose heat through their heads. The change in temperature from leaving the toasty pool area to the outside elements can quickly bring on a case of shivers. Choose layers, which can easily be removed once out of the changing rooms, as baby adjusts to the air temperature.
7. Snacks
After all that splashing about in the pool, your baby is likely to have worked up an appetite so bring a snack, such as a banana or yoghurt. You can then treat yourself to a drink from Starbucks or something delicious from the Pub & Grill whilst baby enjoys their post swim snacks.
8. Don’t forget to pack for yourself!
Be sure to bring your own swimming attire, towel and toiletries to freshen up in our spacious changing rooms.
Our 'Ducks to Water Post' has all the information on the latest baby swimming lessons at Village Gym.
Baby Swimming Lesson FAQs
What should a baby wear to swim lessons?
Any swim costume will do - as long as baby is comfortable, happy and able to move easily! But, if your baby is experiencing any rashes or has sensitive skin, you might want to opt for a rash vest or baby wetsuit for some extra protection.
Which nappies should I use for my baby when swimming?
We recommend you use swimming nappies when in the pool with baby. These types of nappies do not absorb water so they keep baby feeling comfortable and lightweight. These nappies are one use only, so ensure you have a spare, just in case!
Do swim diapers hold in urine?
No. Swim nappies are designed to not absorb any water to prevent waterlogged nappy disasters, so for young infants, make sure you take them to the restrooms beforehand.
What to apply on babies before swimming?
Pool water can be drying for the skin, so it’s important to apply your lotion or moisturiser of choice before entering the water to make sure your baby’s skin stays soft and smooth.
What do parents wear to baby swim lessons?
Parents can wear whatever they’re comfortable in but we would advise going for something more practical, rather than stylish, as you’ll be moving around quite a bit as baby gets its sealegs!
What should I pack in my baby's swim bag?
You’ll need the following; a baby swimming costume, wetsuit or rash vest, aqua nappies, regular nappies, lotion or cream, a hooded towels, floating toys, snacks, wet wipes and creams and a change of clothes for afterwards to keep baby happy and clean.
Should I dunk my baby when swimming?
No. Babies are more susceptible to catching viruses and infections so try your best to keep their heads out of the water when possible. Although infants naturally hold their breath when underwater, they’re just as likely to swallow water which could ruin the experience for them and cause them to hesitate to enter the water again.
Should I wash baby straight after swimming?
Yes - although we work hard to ensure our pool is as clean and chemical-free as possible, we still advise you rinse baby off in the showers after and then apply lotion to keep their skin baby-soft!
How do you change baby after swimming?
Make sure you’re dressed, or at least dry, first before tending to baby - we wouldn’t want their little clothes to get dripped all over while you wrestle them into their outfits after swimming. Wrap them snugly in a hooded towel to dry them off and keep them warm then apply any lotions and creams to rehydrate skin before dressing them.
What is the best age to start swimming lessons?
We think as early as possible. Although there’s no guarantee these lessons will help prevent drowning at such a young age, it’s just as important to get babies used to water and how to move around in it, so starting young is beneficial. Studies suggest that the best age is between 2 and 3 when the skills learned are more likely to stick and make their water-playing safer.
Are swimming lessons worth it for babies and infants?
Yes, we definitely think so! Not only do these lessons help your baby get used to water and more comfortable in the environment, but they can be fun days out for you and your baby and create memories and bonding moments that will last a lifetime! They’ll also give you a chance to meet other parents to form friendships and swap helpful tips!
