For most parents their child’s first swimming lessons are among their fondest memories. Babies and toddlers simply love being in warm water, and contrary to popular belief, you can start your child’s swimming journey as early as you’d like. But before you begin, it’s crucial that you’re prepared. When you’ve got a small child in tow, taking chances around water simply isn’t an option. Listed below are 10 items that will help increase the comfort and safety of your child.
Arm Bands
Children can drown in water that’s less than one inch deep, so never take your eyes off them. Arm bands are crucial, not only for safety, but also for confidence. All it takes is one bad experience and your child could develop a fear of water, which will do nothing but make it harder for them to progress.
Happy Nappy
The Happy Nappy is an award winning reusable nappy designed specifically for wearing in the water. It’s recommended by all of the most prestigious swimming schools and vastly minimizes the chance of leakages in the event of an accident.
Swimming Costume
Water provides the sensations of touch, movement and rhythm all at the same time. For children being in water is a happy time; therefore, making sure they’re comfortable will help them get more out of the experience. A well fitting swimming costume is a must.
Goggles
It’s no secret that children are pretty curious. You can be sure that when your child finally musters up the courage to dip their head underwater, they’ll open their eyes. The stinging sensation of chlorine won’t just give them a shock, but could cause an inflammation of the conjunctiva. Speedo goggles aren’t just a luxury, there are essential part of your kit.
Kick Board
Sometimes your children will need a little extra support, especially when they learn the basic skills and want to start venturing off on their own. Kick boards will give them the chance to transition from your arms to the open water.
Inflatable Toy
Inflatables aren’t always allowed in swimming pools; however, if they are permitted, it’s definitely worth taking one or two along. Inflatable toys can keep your child relaxed in the water by giving them something buoyant to hang on to.
Float Suit
Float suits are an excellent safety precaution for when your child starts moving into deeper water. They contain 16 strategically placed floats that will keep them out of harms way. These floats can be removed gradually over time in order to ease young ones into swimming independently.
Float Seat
Float seats are crucial if you’re in the pool with a baby under 12 months old. They will not only keep your little one safe above the water line, but will help them understand the basic skills of swimming – such as paddling.
Swimming Cap
Swimming caps aren’t 100% water proof; however, they’ll keep your child’s hair relatively dry and their ears protected from chlorinated water. While they’re not essential, they are certainly beneficial, especially if your child suffers from chlorine induced allergies.
Towels
Of course, no swimming checklist would be complete without towels. Consider using cotton bamboo towels as they are naturally anti-bacterial and mildew resistant. In addition, they’re super absorbent and warm.
Swimming equipment is relatively inexpensive, providing you avoid buying from leisure centres. Ordering items from specialist stores, such as Mailsports, can lead to substantial savings. Swimming lessons and pool membership isn’t cheap, so if you can get a little more for your money by ordering the essentials online it’s certainly worth it.