Basics and FAQ's                              
                        
                                        

When can I start swimming with my baby?

You can begin with your baby as early as you are comfortable. We prefer babies to begin before the are 12 months old with the optimum age for a smooth transition being under 6 months. The window of opportunity still exists from 12 - 18 months where initial submersions and water adjustment take place.

Once you have begun, your baby can move through the various levels until they are around 3 years old. Should you be unable to continue with Aqua Babies for this length of time we suggest you complete at least 2 courses to benefit your future swimming.


What does my baby need to wear in the water?

 Babies must wear TWO special swim nappies. The first a disposable swim nappy, widely available from supermarkets and baby shops. On top of this must be a ‘Happy Nappy’. This nappy has a tight seal around the leg and has been specially designed for baby swim schools. Your Happy Nappy can be paid for with your course fees and will be supplied and fitted at your first class. It must be a snug fit, unfortunately we cannot allow any room for growth! 

You will not be allowed into the water without both correct nappies as nappy leaks into the water mean cancelling classes to clean the pool. All children on the Aqua Babies program must continue to wear both swim nappies beyond potty training, accidents still happen!

You can buy Happy nappies when paying for your course; they will then be fitted for you on the day of your first class.


Does my baby need immunisations before swimming?

There is no need for babies to have completed their first set of immunisations before swimming. Further research on this can be seen on the NHS website www.immunisation.org.uk


How do I book and pay for a course?

We have a waiting list for courses. Please book well in advance. For information on courses, booking and payment methods click here


What changing facilities are available?

Changing facilities vary from pool to pool. Many pools offer basic changing in confined space, with some showers available. Please arrive as prepared as possible and no earlier than 15 minutes before your session to allow optimum space for all classes.

For hygiene reasons parents must bring their own changing mat.

Please dispose of all nappies in a sealed nappy sack in a bin provided.


What if my baby has a cold or is unwell?

It is not wise to bring your baby swimming with anything more than a very mild cold. Please consider the other babies in your group as your baby will spread infection and is unlikely to enjoy swimming at that time.

If your baby has an ear infection please do not swim until it has cleared up. It is not likely to have been caused by swimming, however it will be uncomfortable and your baby's ear should be kept dry until it is clear. If your baby has repetitive ear infections you can purchase 'Ear Bandits' for swimming, and seek advice from your GP or consultant.

Babies or Adults experiencing sickness and/or diarrhoea must not swim for a minimum of two weeks to ensure other babies are not infected. Some infections (such as cryptosporidium) causing these symptoms are resistant to chlorine and can temporarily contaminate the pool should any faeces enter the water. It can take at least 2 weeks for a doctor to diagnose, therefore refraining from swimming is essential for that period of time.


Can more than one adult get in the water?

Due to the small size of the pools we only allow one adult in the water, however if the class is not full that day with permission an extra adult may attend


When can I feed my baby?

It is advisable that you feed your baby at least 1 hour before swimming. A small milk or breast feed can be given up to class time, however a full stomach is not recommended. Should your small baby become very hungry during class you may get out and breast feed pool side ( a small top up !!!) and return.

Babies are usually hungry after class and will feed again.

Please note pools do not allow food (including snacks such as raisins!) in the changing rooms.


I can`t find a disposable swim nappy small enough for my baby

Disposable swim nappies ( commonly Huggies Little Swimmers) begin a size small from 16 lbs. Should your baby weigh less than this please purchase the small size as the Happy Nappy will fit snuggly and provide the seal around your baby`s leg.


My baby cries a lot in the water

There are many reasons your baby may cry in the water. Some babies need to adjust to the new environment they are in, with the sounds, splashes and echoes around them.

Think about the timing of your class, is it close to a feed or nap time? And be aware of normal irritants such as teething or the beginning of a cold.

Some babies go through a crying phase specific to swimming. This commonly happens around the age of 12 months and can seem frustrating if your baby has been very happy so far. It is important not to stop coming to classes during this time, your teacher has experienced this many times and can talk you through problems and adjust your program accordingly. Your relaxed positive attitude will help and soon your baby will only cry when it is time to get out!


Can I practice outside of classes and on holiday?

Yes, babies are more comfortable in water the more they swim. Be aware that other pools are usually cooler. Ring in advance and check the water temperature is at least 30 degrees. Never swim your baby more than you have in class and if your baby becomes cold shorten your swim time to 15 minutes. You can also purchase warm in water wet suits and Therma-suits to keep your baby warmer. For swim shop click here


Do I need to be able to swim or go underwater myself?

No, you can learn our techniques without putting your head under the water, though it is lovely to meet your baby underwater and share the experience.

We use pools with a depth of between 1.2 and 1.4 metres so you can stand up at all times (though 1.4mtrs is shoulder depth and would be difficult if you are less than 5'2"tall)


 

It is safe to swim your baby before immunisations. Please refer to www.immunisation.org.uk for full details. However we recommend that if you are uncomfortable with this please wait until you are ready.