Getting ready for your lesson

Hooray. You and your little are all ready to start swimming with us. It’s an exciting time. But we can imagine you’re probably quite nervous, and maybe a bit unsure of what it is that you need to do before your first lesson. Don't worry. We’ve got you covered.

A few weeks before...

Getting your little one used to the water 

There are lots of things you can do to get your child familiar with water before you start, so you’ll feel just as confident as they do on the big day. 


You can build your child's water confidence, wherever you are

Lesson Content
Learn online
There's so much that you can do to start building your baby's water confidence from birth. Let our teachers pass on their knowledge and expertise through our handy practical videos, which show you key skills you can do with your little one, wherever you are. Whether you’re learning in the sink, bath or swimming pool, there’s a video for you.
Lesson Content
Learn online
There's so much that you can do to start building your baby's water confidence from birth. Let our teachers pass on their knowledge and expertise through our handy practical videos, which show you key skills you can do with your little one, wherever you are. Whether you’re learning in the sink, bath or swimming pool, there’s a video for you.

As well as exploring the sensation of the water from the comfort of your own home, you can also pop down to your local pool. Try and make sure that it's a minimum temperature of 29 degrees celsius so they don't get chilly. You don’t have to be there long, but getting them used to the atmosphere; the sights, sounds and smells, will put them even more at ease before their first lesson.  

Things to bring to the lesson

You'll need...

  • Happy Nappy™ – no other diaper will do. The Happy Nappy is tested and approved, the only one that can guarantee against leakages. You don't want to be the party pooper of your lesson (literally!). When you buy your Happy Nappy from us, we'll check the fit in your first lesson. Just keep the tags on. That way we can swap it if the size isn't perfect.
  • Reusable or paper swim diaper
  • Towel – one for your little one and one for you.
  • Changing mat – our Twinkle Twinkle mat is perfect and means you can change your little one easily, wherever you are.
  • Warm hat – little heads get cold easily after swimming.
  • Swimwear for you – could be a little embarrassing otherwise!
  • Snacks and a drink for on the way home – swimming is great for building an appetite. 

What about me?  

All you’ll need is comfortable swimwear and a towel. It’s also a good idea to have a pair of goggles handy, that way you can see your child thrive underwater. But don’t worry. If you’re not a confident swimmer, you won’t be forced to go beneath the surface.

Vaccinations 

Your child doesn’t need vaccinations before getting into the pool as the chlorine in the water will act as a barrier against bacteria or viruses. As soon as they’re ready, we’re ready. But if your little one is premature, it’s best to check with your doctor first.

The big day  

Arriving  

Carers and little ones should be ready to start swimming as soon as the lesson before has finished. But, we recommend arriving at least twenty minutes before your first class, so you can feel nice, comfortable, and relaxed before getting in. We know how frantic it can be sometimes!  

When you arrive for your first lesson, you’ll be met by our friendly team who will tell you everything you need to know, so don’t worry if you’re a little unsure of what to do or where to go. 

Getting changed 

All our pools have a place for you to change with your child. Remember to bring your changing mat for your little one.

Feeding  

When little ones get a little fussy in the water, it might be because they’re a bit hungry. Feed them one hour before the lesson, but keep it light. With toddlers, we also suggest leaving an hour between their meal and lesson. 

Can I bring my camera? 

It does depend on where you’re swimming. This is down to factors like the size of the pool, the viewing area of the pool and how comfortable all the other parents might be feeling. Our teacher will always check with the rest of the group first before giving consent for photos to be taken.  

But if there’s anything else you’re unsure about get in touch with your local office. They’re happy to help. 

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