Get Ready for your First Lesson!

You are always welcome, as you are. I love creating a safe space, so you and your little one can simply be. Each week take a little more time than you usually would, getting ready. We often think about our children’s needs, but often forget ourselves too. Make sure you have everything you need before you leave the house. For example, towels and nappies (swim and regular). Some parents come ”swim ready” with their own swimming costume on under their clothes. Avoid doing anything too busy before your swim session. 

Everyone should be ready and on poolside to start swimming as soon as the lesson before has finished. Please arrive at least ten minutes before your class, so you can feel nice and comfortable before getting in. When you arrive for your first lesson, you will be guided by a pool member of staff who will tell you everything that you need to know, so don’t worry if you’re a little unsure of what to do or where to go. 

A double-nappy system is compulsory for babies and children who are not yet toilet trained. It is the most practical, and most hygienic way to prevent little accidents in the pool. A double-nappy system comprises of a disposable or reusable swim nappy worn under a swim nappy cover. I would recommend using a reusable under swim nappy, as they are kinder to the environment. I hold a small collection of nappy covers you have borrow at the pool. If you need to purchase a nappy cover, please use my referral link for 10% off: https://www.konfidence.co.uk/pages/double-layer-bundle?ref=swimwithkayleigh

There are many different types of swim suits available; from traditional swimming costumes to neoprene warm suits and wraps. Our pool is warm enough many babies swim in just their nappy. Warm suits and wraps are designed to keep little ones warmer for longer. If you need to purchase swim wear, please use my referral link for 10% off: https://www.konfidence.co.uk/?ref=swimwithkayleigh

Many parents bring goggles to lessons. This means you can join in on the underwater experiences together. The best goggles to buy are ones with clear lenses, as babies can still see your eyes, rather than mirrored goggles which can unsettle them. Toddlers can start wearing goggles from the age of around 3 years old. When toddlers start to wear goggles it can open up a whole magical world, when they can see clearly underwater! I would advise that you let your child pick their own goggles and practice wearing them in the bath at home first.

Before your lesson is about to start, ask yourself. What is little one curious about? Are they looking around, taking in all the sights and sounds? Take this moment to be with vour child, to 'simply be!'

Please dry and exit the changing rooms to avoid cross over with the next class. Putting little one in a sleepsuit rather than an outfit after swimming is so much easier and quicker! If your baby is very young, a hat is also a good idea as babies lose heat through their head. Definitely bring a toy to entertain them in the changing rooms whilst you’re getting yourself sorted. We also have travel cots available. 

Top tip! Get an absorbent robe for yourself. This means you can dry off whilst getting your little one sorted after swimming. Due to the air temperature on poolside I recommend you bring loose clothing for afterwards that’s easy to slip on. Avoid clothing such as tight jeans and leggings. 

All that swimming and splashing works up an appetite! Cups of water are available but you may want to pop a snack and drink, in your swim bag for after your lesson - but please remember to save the snack for after you're out of the changing rooms. If you are feeding with solids, please allow at least 1 hour for food to digest before coming swimming. For babies under 6 months please feed as necessary, if your baby is hungry they are less likely to enjoy their swim.