Getting ready for your lesson

Hooray. You and your baby 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 baby used to the water 

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


You can build your baby'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.

We only swim in pools which have been heated to at least 29 °C. If your baby is under 12 weeks or 12lbs, any pool you swim in will be a minimum temperature of 32 °C. Older babies can swim in 30 °C pools and toddlers under 2 years can swim in 29 °C pools so long as they are wearing a wetsuit. Don’t worry though, we’ll make sure you’re always in the right temperature pool for your little one. 

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 nappy 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 nappy
  • 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.
  • Swimming costume/shorts 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!

Vaccinations 

Based on health guidelines, your baby doesn’t need vaccinations before getting into the pool. Take a look at the HSE guidelines here.  As soon as they’re ready, we’re ready. But if your little one is premature, it’s best to check with your health practitioner first.  


The big day  

 

Arriving  

Carers and babies should be ready to start swimming as soon as the lesson before has finished. But, we recommend that you arrive at least fifteen minutes before your class, so you can feel nice and 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 that 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 of our pools have changing facilities suitable for you and your baby. 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 peckish. Feed them one hour before the lesson - just keep it a light one. With toddlers, we also suggest leaving an hour before their meal and lesson. 

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

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