Learn to Swim

A guide to the Learn to Swim Programme

What to take for your child’s first swimming lesson

Starting swimming lessons is a big step for many children (and often for those taking them!).

Even if you are a pool regular yourself, it’s not always obvious what to bring for your child’s first swimming lesson.

So we thought we’d help out by highlighting some steps to take beforehand and what to bring to the first session.

Before the lesson

We strongly recommend you familiarise your child with the local pool and swimming pool environment. Family trips to the swimming pool are the perfect way to do this, as well as a fun day out!

It may also be worthwhile checking with the pool what their dress code is for lessons and whether you need to take anything extra.

Some pools have dress codes such as no long shorts or swimming caps to be worn by children with long hair. If you’re not sure, give the pool a call.

The lesson itself

It’s a nice idea to involve your child in what they need for their swimming lesson so they know what to expect when they get to the pool. Use our checklist below to make sure you have all the essentials.

First Swimming Lesson Checklist

Here is our list of things to think of when taking your child for their first swimming lesson.

  • Swimming costume/trunks/shorts (for both yourself and your child if appropriate)
  • Towels
  • Shampoo/shower gel
  • Hair clips/hair bands (if needed)
  • Swimming cap/hat (if needed)
  • Locker money/coin (if needed)
  • Goggles (these are not usually needed for beginners and some pools will have policies on their use)
  • Floats/arm bands (these are usually supplied by Learn to Swim programmes or the pool, but worth double checking)
  • Swim nappies for children starting with Adult and Child lessons (many pools sell these at reception and they are widely available at supermarkets)

Find more help with your child starting out on their swimming lessons journey here.

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