What to Bring for Baby Swimming Lessons: 10 Must-Have Items
A little planning makes baby swimming lessons much calmer. Here are ten things to pack, and a few tips for the day itself.
The 10 must-have items
- Swim nappies, plus spares. Most pools require a fitted swim nappy for babies and toddlers who are not toilet-trained. Swim nappies are not leak-proof, so check often and change away from the poolside.
- A swimsuit or sun suit for baby. A long-sleeved suit helps keep babies warm and protects their skin at outdoor pools.
- A hooded towel. Babies lose heat quickly. Wrap them up as soon as they leave the water.
- Your own swimwear and towel. Parents are usually in the water with babies and toddlers.
- A change of clothes for baby, plus a regular nappy, wipes and a changing mat.
- A snack, milk or feed for after the lesson. Babies are often hungry after swimming. Avoid a big feed just before the lesson.
- Sun protection for outdoor pools: shade, a hat for after the lesson, and baby-safe sunscreen if your doctor recommends it.
- A wet bag for damp swimwear and towels.
- Water for you. Pool decks get hot in Singapore.
- A favourite small bath toy, if the instructor allows it, to help a nervous baby settle.
What not to bring
Inflatable armbands, rings and baby floats are not safety devices and are usually not used in lessons. Your hands and arm's-reach supervision are what keep your baby safe. Read our water safety tips.
Tips for a calm lesson day
- Time it around naps and feeds. A rested, comfortable baby enjoys lessons more.
- Arrive early so you are not rushing in the changing room.
- Stay home if baby is unwell, particularly with diarrhoea, a fever or an ear infection.
- Watch for cold. Shivering, pale lips or fussing mean it is time to get out and warm up.
- Stay relaxed. Babies pick up on your mood. Smiles and singing help.
- Do not force anything. Every baby progresses at their own pace.
Learn more
Read infant swimming benefits and the best age to learn swimming. Swim2u runs baby lessons for children 2 and below, and toddler lessons for children 4 and below, with a parent in the water.
More in children and babies
- What is artistic swimming?A beginner's guide to the Olympic sport
- Why is swimming good for kids?11 benefits for children, and how SwimSafer fits in Singapore
- Infant swimming benefits10 benefits of swimming with your baby, and how to keep it safe
- Does swimming make you taller?What really decides height, and what swimming can do
Sources
- CDC, Swim diapers and swim pants. Swim nappies are not leak-proof; check and change them often, away from the poolside; swimmers with diarrhoea should stay out of the water.
Looking for baby or toddler swimming lessons?
Tell us your child's age, any water experience and anything the instructor should know. We will suggest a suitable course, format and pool. Lessons run at public swimming complexes, private venues and condominium pools across Singapore.
Frequently asked questions
Does my baby need a swim nappy?
Yes. Most pools require a fitted swim nappy for babies and toddlers who are not toilet-trained. Check it often and change it away from the pool.
Should I feed my baby before swimming?
Avoid a big feed right before the lesson. Bring milk or a snack for afterwards, as babies are often hungry after swimming.
Do babies need goggles?
Usually not for baby lessons. Toddlers who are starting to put their faces in may benefit from child-sized goggles; ask the instructor.