It’s time for baby’s first swim, and you’re slightly nervous. You don’t know how they will react to the water, and you can’t remember if you packed everything to keep them occupied and happy.
Stop, and take a breather because Ryan Homes at Brunswick Crossing has got you covered. Here are a few parent-favorite tips on how to take care of your baby at the community pool:
Consider a special swimsuit. Babies prefer bath water that is between 85 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit, but most community pools are much cooler than that to accommodate the older patrons. To keep your baby warm after a swim, wrap them in thick pool towels right after exiting the water.
You should also think about using a special bathing suit made of neoprene (a material that provides insulation against the cold). Some of our mom-tested favorites include Soles Up Front Baby Wetsuit Warmer and Splash About BabyWrap, which “is designed to provide core body coverage and warmth."
Bring a favorite toy or blanket. It is all about making your child comfortable during their first few visits to the community pool. Bring their favorite bath toy, blanket, or snack to keep them relaxed in a new environment. You can also meet up with some friends, so they recognize familiar faces.
Sign up for a swim class. Signing up for a special baby swim class is a good idea before entering the pool. It will boost your young child’s confidence and introduce them to a new environment in a controlled atmosphere, which will create happy memory associations with the water.
Use sunscreen. Many parents know that babies have highly sensitive skin. Understand how to protect it from the harsh summer rays with these quick tips:
- Apply sunscreen liberally 30 minutes prior to being exposed
- Reapply sunblock every hour
- Use a thick sunscreen that won’t wash off in the water
- Avoid spray-on sunscreens to prevent accidental inhalation
- Use a sunblock between SPF 30 and SPF 50
- Choose a natural, mineral-based sunscreen with 15 to 20 percent zinc oxide as the active ingredient
- Find a sunblock with 3 percent or higher avobenzone
- Avoid sunscreens with retinyl palmitate (Vitamin A), para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA), and oxybenzone
Set up by an umbrella. Our community pool offers a variety of shady spots to park your stroller near. Feel free to set up camp underneath one of our umbrellas to keep your kids safe and out of the sun.
Invest in tons of swim diapers. At Brunswick Crossing’s community pool, any infants who are not potty-trained yet must wear a swim diaper at all times. Choose a brand that fits snug around the waist and legs, so moms and dads have enough time to exit the pool before taking care of any mishaps. Our favorite eco-friendly products include iPlay Resuable Absorbent Swim Diapers, Bummis Swimmi Cloth Diaper, and AppleCheeks Washable Swim Diaper.
Avoid peak hours. Unfortunately, a busy environment can make for a fussy baby. To keep them happy at the pool, visit around 11 a.m. or after 4 p.m. If it’s one of your infant’s first times in the water, limit pool time between 10 to 15 minutes. Once they're comfortable, work your way up to 20 to 30 minutes.
Are you a bit less anxious now? Remember to get to the pool early, set up in a shady spot, and have fun! After a few visits and a handful of swim lessons, your baby will comfortable in the water.
