diving in: what (and how) to pack for baby swim class
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Taking your baby swimming can be an exciting and memorable experience, but it can also be a cold, hungry and tired disaster. To ensure it all goes swimmingly (sorry..), it's helpful to be well-prepared and organized. In this blog post, I’ll guide you through the process of packing your swimming bag and provide you with a helpful checklist of essentials.
Let's dive in!
Essential Swim Kit
To streamline your swimming experience, let’s start with packing the right items in your swimming bag. Here's a checklist to ensure you have everything you need:
1. Portable changing mat: A comfortable surface for putting baby down on. We had one like this with pockets for storing spare nappies, wipes, bags etc. I remember we got a good tip to always change baby on the floor at the pool as wet babies are slippery babies.
2. Towels: Pack at least two towels—one for drying your child and one for yourself. Even better is a towel poncho for yourself.
3. Waterproof bag: Ideal for storing wet swimwear and keeping other items dry.
4. Disposable swim nappies: Bring along at least two swim nappies for your child, unless you are really, really brave...
5. Nappy bags: Essential for hygienic disposal of dirty nappies. Many baby swim lessons insist you take used nappies home to dispose of.
6. Clean nappies: Pack enough clean nappies for after your swimming session.
7. Baby wipes: Essential
8. Outer swim nappy: Consider purchasing a specialized swim nappy for added leak protection, many swim classes insist on the Happy Nappy style, these keep poop contained and also come in a wetsuit style which might be nice for those chillier swimming pools.
9. Goggles: (for you, not your baby!) If your swim lesson involves putting your head under water, these may come in handy.
10. Spare clothes for your child: things get wet, it's always good to have spare clothes on hand.
11. Underwear and socks: Don't forget these essentials for yourself.
12. Hairbrush: Tame post-swim hair with a handy hairbrush.
13. Water bottle: Staying hydrated is important, so bring water for yourself and your child.
14. Snacks/feed for baby: Pack some snacks to refuel after swimming. We usually had pouches as they could work on it solo whilst I got dressed.
15. Flip flops: for navigating wet surfaces.
16. Swim hat: Some swimming pools may require a swim hats
How to make it easier
Wear Your Swimwear
Make the process easier by wearing your swimwear under loose-fitting clothes before leaving the house. This saves time and ensures you're ready to jump into the water.
2. The Packing Process
To make the most of your time at the pool, pack your bag strategically. Here's a step-by-step guide:
1. At the bottom of your bag, place all your spare stuff.
2. On top of that, place your child's warm, dry clothes and spare nappy.
3. On top of that, put your clean, dry underwear.
4. Add two towels on top of the underwear.
5. Place your child's swimwear and one disposable swim nappy, and happy nappy on top of the plastic wallet.
6. Finally, pack your flip flops, goggles, and other personal items on top.
7. Keep the changing mat on the very top for easy access.
The Swimming Process:
Now that you're prepared, here's how to make the most of your swimming experience:
1. Before leaving the house, put your swimsuit on, and give your child a snack or feed to ensure they're comfortable and content.
2. Arrive at the pool and head to the changing room.
3. Lay out the changing mat and place your child on it
4. Strip down to your swimwear, tuck your clothes into a side pocket of your bag, and put on your flip flops and hat.
5. Get your baby ready, disposable swim nappy, happy nappy and keep them nice and warm until it’s time to get in the pool.
6. Make sure your towels are on top and ready to grab when you’re out of the water.
Happy splashing!
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