Getting ready for your first lesson
We can’t wait to welcome you to the Water Babies family.
Once you’re all booked on, let’s get you and your little one ready to start swimming with us. We’ve got everything covered for you to prepare and enjoy your first lesson and beyond with us.
Your First Lesson
After booking, we’ll send a pool-specific welcome email with all the helpful information you need.
Here’s a few handy points,
- Arrive early (at least 20 minutes, but give extra time if you have never been to the venue.) 15 minutes is enough on a regular day, but not on day 1.
- Parents should arrive “beach ready” and you can change your little one when you arrive. Everything you need to pack is listed below.
- All our pools are warmed to the right temperature for the comfort of you and your child
- Lessons are 30 minutes and we have more information about them, how they’re structured and which team your little one will be in, here
- It’s completely normal for little ones to take their time in a new environment — every child learns at their own pace, may skip a skill, have a little cry, or simply have an off day (teething included!).
What To Pack For Your Lesson
There’s many things to think about when it comes to attending your first baby swimming lesson! Ensuring you have everything you need in plenty of time will help to alleviate any last minute panicking.
- Happy Nappy Daiper System – Every water baby must wear our double diaper system at their lessons, which means a paper or reusable swim diaper with an approved neoprene Happy Nappy over the top. Your local office will be able to provide these.
- Towel. One for you and one for your little one
- Wetsuit (optional for keeping extra toasty)
- Changing Mat
- Warm hat. Little heads get cold easily after swimming.
- Swimwear for you
- Snacks and a drink for on the way home. Swimming is great for building an appetite.
Your First Lesson FAQ’s
We know taking your baby swimming can feel daunting, so we’re here to support you with clear answers and guidance—from booking your first lesson to what to bring—so you feel confident and prepared.
Check your welcome email and your ‘My Water Babies’ portal for more information. And of course, do get in touch with your local office. They’re happy to help.
We only swim in pools which have been heated to at least 84 °F. If your baby is under 12 weeks or 12lbs, any pool you swim in will be a minimum temperature of 90 °F. Older babies can swim in 86 °F pools and toddlers under 2 years can swim in 84 °F 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 child.
All you’ll need is comfortable swimwear and a towel!
Based on health guidelines, your baby doesn’t need to wait to have their vaccinations before starting their Water Babies journey. Our pools are kept well-sanitised, and so coming to swim is the same from a vaccination standpoint as any other group baby activity. If your little one is premature, it’s best to check with your health practitioner first.
It depends. While most do, some of our partner venues do not allow photography. Just ask your local office and they can confirm the rules at your pool. In addition, no photos can be taken in a class where a family has requested that no photos be taken when their child is in the water.
When little ones get a little fussy in the water, it might be because they’re a bit hungry. 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.
All of our pools have changing facilities suitable for you and your baby. To ensure everyone’s safety, children that cannot yet stand on their own should always be changed on the floor to guard against accidents! Remember to bring your changing mat for your little one.
Carers and babies should be poolside and ready to start swimming as soon as their lesson time comes. For your first lesson, you may want to give some extra time, and once you are in the swing of things, we recommend you arrive at least fifteen minutes before your class, so you can feel nice and relaxed before getting in.
My Water Babies Online Portal
Immerse yourself into your swimming journey with us, stay updated on your little one’s progress, track milestones & badges, and access important class information all in one place.
Inside Your ‘My Water Babies’ Portal:
- See how your little one progresses and what skills they’re learning.
- Find all your billing info and create create receipts.
- Track the Water Babies Treasures they collect along the way.
- Stay informed about swimming dates and lesson schedules.
- Access all your class details, including session times and teacher information.
- Easily create your account once you book onto lessons.
So what are you waiting for? The adventure awaits…
Discover your local class today.
