Your Questions answered

A: Babies do not need their vaccinations before they join us. If your little one is premature or you have any post-birth trauma you should always check with your GP before signing up. Please check all the latest guidelines on the NHS website Can my baby go swimming before or after vaccinations?
www.nhs.uk

A: Your baby can start swimming with us from birth, however we recommend starting when you feel you are ready to start your swimming journey with us. If your little one was born prematurely then it would be advisable to check with your GP before signing up.

A: You can wear your normal swimwear to the lesson. Your baby will need a disposable or reusable swim nappy plus a SplashAbout Neoprene Swim Nappy over the top. This is known as the ‘Double Nappy System’ which will protect against any leakage into the pool. All our pools are warm, so you do not need a wetsuit, but this is purely optional.

A: Swimkidz provides all pool equipment for lessons, so you do not need to bring any toys. We would recommend a roll and go changing mat to pop on changing benches. Swimkidz can supply all reusable nappies at a competitive price known as ‘bundles.

A: Bathtime is the perfect place to get your little one used to the water. Starting from the baby bath and progressing to the ‘big’ bath. Playing and talking to your little one to reassure them really helps. You can also pop along to a local pool, be mindful to choose a nice warm pool and quiter time for that first visit. When you book in with us, we will talk you through a range of things you can do at bathtime to prepare your little one.

A: It is safe for your baby to do submersions during our lessons. This is because of the ‘GAG REFLEX’ which is present from birth. This reflex is triggered whenever water enters the baby’s mouth; the baby’s reflexive reaction is to close the trachea, so no water enters the lungs creating a watertight seal over the windpipe. During lessons we use ‘Word Assocation’ so the reflex will in time become a learned response. Our teachers are specially trained to look for signs that your baby is ready for a submersion and will never submerge a little one who is not ready.

A: If your baby has eczema then you can apply a thin layer of Aqueous barrier cream or one your GP has prescribed over the affected area before swimming. It also helps to have a ‘rash type’ body suit over the top.

A: We recommend feeding your little one a milk feed an hour before lessons. However, if your little one wants to feed during lessons then you should listen to the needs of your baby. Toddlers should not have any solid food at least one hour before lessons as there is always the risk, they may feel unwell so keep it to a light snack before swimming.

A: All of the pools we use for baby swimming are heated to 30+ degrees. Toddlers can swim in pools that are slightly cooler but when you book on, we will ensure you are booked into the correct pool for your little one’s age.

A: When you book onto lessons with us you will receive a ‘welcome pack’ which details everything you need to know about the pool and parking. As a rule, we say 15 minutes before the start of lessons to give you ample time to get changed.

A: If you or your little one have a temperature you must avoid lessons to stop any infections spreading to others. If you experience any symptoms of sickness and/or diarrhoea you will need to wait at least 72hrs before attending lessons after the last episode of illness. If you have any other illnesses, you should consult your GP for their advice before returning to the pool.

A: Currently we take all debit and credit cards except premium business cards and AMEX”