Swim Class Essentials

This summer my son started swim lessons and, of course, I had a lot of questions. I’m the type of person who loves to be prepared, even just for myself. So, naturally this personality trait has been elevated since having a baby. After several weeks of lessons, I think I finally have it covered…what things you need and what you really don’t! So here’s my go to list!

Here are 10 things I found very useful to bring for our swim class!

1. Swimsuit – I really love these zip up one pieces, they give great coverage and don’t ride up! I also like this neon suit (if you haven’t heard of the swimsuit color safety test, I highly suggest looking at it) 
2. Swim Diaper – I use these swim diapers, but I’ve also been gifted a couple reusable ones if that’s what you prefer. 
3. Towel – I like to use regular pool/beach towels to dry off, but once we’re dry, I put my son in this adorable wearable hooded towel from Walmart because it’s easier for him to wear and walk in. I’ve seen similar ones on Amazon as well, but honestly you can’t beat the price of the Walmart one! 
4. Shoes – We already had a pair of adorable little flip flops but I also decided to get these cute little water shoes because they seemed like a great option for all summer long!
5. Regular Diaper – I only use pampers! From my experience, they are the most absorbent. We’ve started to use the Cruisers 360 because sometimes he barely sits still for a diaper change, and these are super easy for car diaper changes. 
6. Sunblock – I’ve been using this brand and I just recently saw they also have stick versions! 
7. Wet bag or ziplock – You can totally get a fancy wet bag, but sometimes I simply use a zip lock baggie! Works just as good. 
8. Water Bottle & Snack – We just bought these straw cups and I’ve been loving them so far! Then I usually also bring a go-go squeeze for after class. 
9. Sunglasses for the parent – Must have for me! I love these Quay brand sunglasses! 
10. Big swim bag – I like using a bag that stands up on its own. I got this cute pink one from Target. So much easier to put everything in one handed…cuz you know we do most things one handed now! 

…and here are 5 things that you really DO NOT need!

1. Swim cap – I feel like unless you have a specific reason that your child needs to wear one, it’s not necessary. 
2. Goggles – The swim instructor specifically said not to have your child wear goggles, because we want them getting used to the water on their face and eyes.
3. Change of clothes – Unless you’re going somewhere after class, I don’t think you need a change of clothes. I put my son in his diaper and wearable towel and we headed out! 
4. Water toys – Our swim teacher had a bag full of toys for the kids to play with so if this is the case for you, there isn’t any need to bring your own.
5. Floaties – Similar to the goggles, we want our kids to learn to swim and not rely on these things, so for class, no need for floaties!

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