Swimming Essentials for Kids
The swimming season is around the corner! Are you excited to jump into the pool and start swimming with your kids? During your trips to the pool, whether your little one is just getting started on swimming or is already a fish in the water, having the right equipment can double the fun! From goggles to floaties, let’s dive in and discover together the must-haves of swimming for your kids that will help them have a delightful time and become the best swimmer that they can be, all while staying safe and comfortable.
Swimsuits and Swim Nappies
Swimsuits and swim nappies are essential for your children to have a fun and safe swimming experience. As it can make a great difference in their adjustment to water and swimming, It is important that your children have swimsuits that fit properly and are comfortable. The swimsuit should have a snug fit so that it stays in place and does not slide off during swimming or play. For your little ones, swim nappies are crucial before their potty training to prevent any accidents in the pool, ensuring a clean and hygienic swimming experience. A good swimsuit and a reliable swim nappy can provide comfort and boost confidence, allowing kids to focus on enjoying their time in the water and helping them improve their swimming.
Swimming Aids
Swimming aids are fantastic tools to help young swimmers build confidence and improve their skills in the water while ensuring their safety. Floats, kickboards, and armbands are popular aids that provide buoyancy and support while children learn to swim, or simply enjoy their time in the water. These aids help children feel more comfortable and secure in the water, allowing them to focus on developing proper technique. As your children improve their swimming skills, you can gradually reduce their reliance on swimming aids. However, always supervise your children closely when using swimming aids to ensure their safety in the water.
Goggles & Swim Cap
Goggles and swim caps are the must-haves of any young adventurer who loves swimming. Goggles not only protect your little ones’ eyes from chlorine but also help them see clearly underwater, making swimming more fun and helping improve their technique. If your little adventurer is new to swimming, goggles can boost their confidence by letting them explore the underwater world without hurting their eyes or causing any other discomfort. For children with longer hair, a swim cap or a hair band is essential for keeping hair out of their faces, preventing distractions and making it easier to focus on swimming. Additionally, swim caps reduce drag in the water, helping your child swim more smoothly and efficiently.
Toys
Make pool time even more exciting by bringing along some pool toys! Pool floats, swim rings, and splash balls are just a few options that can add excitement to your children’s quality time in the water. These toys can help improve swimming skills, encourage active play, and spark creativity as they bring fun to the pool. Plus, sharing pool toys with friends can make swimming even more enjoyable for your kids as they socialise. Just keep in mind to choose toys that are suitable for your child’s age and swimming ability. With the right pool toys, each pool day is an adventure!
Shower Supplies
Swimming, and playing in a chlorinated pool can often leave your children’s sensitive skin and hair feeling dry, which can damage them when not frequently taken care of. To protect your children’s skin, and to keep their hair as shiny and healthy as ever, remember to bring shower essentials with you when planning a trip to the pool or the beach. Pack shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and moisturiser to cleanse and hydrate your kid’s skin and hair after swimming. A wet brush is particularly convenient for detangling their hair with ease, making it especially useful for your child’s hair. With the right shower supplies, you can wash away the chlorine and keep your baby’s skin and hair soft and smooth.
Water
Keep in mind that swimming is a form of exercise, and staying hydrated is essential, especially when you are spending hours under the heat with your kids and family. Bring a water bottle to ensure your child drinks plenty of water before, during, and after swimming. Dehydration can happen without you even realising it, even in the water, because the body loses fluids through sweat and exertion. Encourage your kids to take regular sips of water to keep their energy levels up and avoid feeling thirsty. Proper hydration helps maintain overall health and improves performance in the pool. By keeping a water bottle handy, you can make sure your child stays hydrated, refreshed and ready for more swimming fun.
Towel
Always bring a towel to the pool deck. It will help keep your child warm when they want to take a break from swimming or playing, preventing them from getting too chilly and catching a cold in the middle of summer. Towels also come in handy for drying off quickly, which helps avoid creating water puddles that can be a slip-and-fall hazard. Having a dry, cosy towel ready ensures your child feels comfortable and safe after swimming. Plus, it makes transitioning from the pool to getting dressed much easier and more pleasant.
Lock
Don’t forget to bring a combination or key lock with you to secure your personal items in the locker room. Using a lock ensures that valuable items like your cell phone, purse, and wallet are kept safe and secure while you’re having fun with your child. It’s best to store these belongings in a locked, dry area to prevent any loss or damage. By locking up your items, you can enjoy quality time with your family with peace of mind, knowing your possessions are free from harm.
Snack
Kids love snacking, especially after swimming. Pack a healthy and fun treat for them to enjoy to keep their energy levels up. A nutritious snack like a piece of fruit, an oat bar, or some yoghurt can help replenish their energy and keep them satisfied until their next meal. Snacks also help you keep them entertained while they are restoring their energy and excitement to go back to playing. Bringing a snack also prevents post-swim hunger from making them cranky. With a tasty and healthy treat ready, your child will feel refreshed and happy after their time in the pool.
Sandals
Footwear that is easy to slide on and off is paramount for walking around the pool. A proper pair of sandals or water shoes will help prevent slipping on wet surfaces, thus preventing any unwanted incidents from happening. These shoes are designed to provide good traction, keeping your child safe as they play around the pool area. Additionally, wearing sandals or water shoes can protect their feet from hot surfaces and any potential debris. With the right footwear, your child can comfortably and safely enjoy their time at the pool and create many happy memories.
Bag
A proper bag to place all of your items in is a must for ensuring comfort at the pool. Pack a comfortable outfit for your child to change into after they are ready to take a break, ensuring they stay cosy and dry as they replenish their energy. Pack additional bags for wet swimsuits and towels to keep your bag dry and organised. Utilising these bags not only helps maintain the cleanliness of your gym bag but also stops any moisture from seeping into other belongings. With everything neatly packed in your pool bag, you can easily transport your items to and from the pool without any extra work.