Frequently Asked Questions

Will my baby take water into their lungs?

If babies start early they will still have reflex. It is normal for babies to cry for the first few times but majority tolerate submersions happily.

Do i have to put my baby underwater?

We understand that some babies may take a few weeks to settle, we usually start with one or more submersions but if you are unsure or if baby is still not happy after few weeks, we wont submerge.

My Child has been ill with diarrhea, when can they return to swimming?

Anyone who has had a bout of diarrhea should not swim for at least 7-14 days.

This is due to possible anal seepage which could carry the cryptosporidium and Giardia infectious cysts which are immune to chlorine.

Can I do a catch up lesson as my child has been ill?

Catch up lessons may be available if you have missed lessons due to illness but this is only if there is space.

What if my child has a cold or is unwell?

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

If your child 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 child’s ear should be kept dry until it is clear.

If your child has repetitive ear infections you can purchase ‘Ear Band’ for swimming, and seek advice from your GP or consultant.

Do the teachers love what they do?

Without a doubt we have a wonderful job and never hide the amazement.

Can I and my family watch my child swim?

Yes you can watch your child swim at any of pools but outdoor shoes are not allowed onto poolside areas.

Please either take shoes off or put on blue pool shoe covers provided at the reception.

Does my child need to bring their armbands or other swimming aids?

No, each of our pools has all the equipment necessary for your child’s lesson. If the teacher feels that your child needs extra buoyancy aids they will supply them for you.

At what age can children have lessons without a parent in the water?

Usually a child will have solo lessons at around 30 months of age. We will aim to make this transition as smooth as possible and will happily ‘wean’ the parent away over several lessons.

How do i book and pay for a course?

You can book and pay online or complete a Booking Enquiry Form or alternatively you can phone or email our office.

What is your policy on photographing my child?

In accordance with our child protection policy photographing or videoing is not allowed at any of our pools. There will be regular opportunities to have a photograph taken of your child through organised photo shoots.

What happens if I cancel my course?

Once a place has been booked on a course, there will be no refund given if cancelled less than 7 days prior to the start date.

Courses cancelled with more than 7 days’ notice will be entitled to a refund if there is a valid reason why, but there will be a £15.00 administration fee.

I’m going on holiday; can I pay only for the lessons we will be attending?

Unfortunately, you must pay for the whole course to guarantee your place. We will arrange catch up lessons for the classes you will miss if available.

What happens in the event of pool closures due to bad weather like snow?

In the event of pool closures that are beyond our or the pool’s control, refunds will not be given. An example of this may be bad weather which may mean the roads are closed or are unsafe.
If we have to close the pool, we will offer you a catch up lesson or a credit towards your next re book with us.

How do I re-enrol for the next course?

On the first two lessons of your new course, a re-enrollment form will be available at reception or on our website to enable you to continue.

Priority is given to those that are already in Swim school and who are not changing class, day and time, 2nd priority is then given to those that are already in our Swim school who wish to change day or time.

This priority is only given if the re-enrollment is received before the cut-off date, which is usually the second week of a new course.

Once this date has been reached places will then be allocated to our waiting lists.

If you pay by Direct Debit, your automatically rolled over to our next course so you don’t need to do anything

What does my baby need to wear in the water?

It is now compulsory for all children under the age of 3 to wear a double swim nappy system.

This consists of a disposable or a washable swim nappy, which is widely available from supermarkets and baby shops, with a ‘Happy Nappy’ or ‘Nappicova’ over the top. After years of trial and error we only allow Splash About’s ‘Happy Nappy’ or Konfidence’s ‘Nappicova’ which is specially designed for baby swimming

We have found that some other swim nappies can be ineffective as the seal around the thigh area is not tight enough. 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 will result in cancelling classes to clean the pool.

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!

Does my baby need immunisations before swimming?

Babies can go swimming at any age; they do not have had to complete their course of immunisation.
Further research on this can be seen on the NHS website www.immunisation.org.uk

Can I practice with my baby outside of classes and on holiday?

Yes, babies are more comfortable in water the more they swim. Be aware that other pools may be cooler. Never swim your baby for more time than you do in class and if your baby becomes cold shorten your swim time to 15 minutes.

To attend a baby class 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 will guide you as the parent as much as you need; we want this to be special bonding experience for both you and baby.

Can I feed my baby at the pools?

You are more than welcome to breast or bottle feed your baby at any of our pools after your lesson.

Please DO NOT feed your baby for at two hours before your class.
We do have high chairs for you to use, but please clean these after use.

Is there anywhere to park?

Yes, we have our own allocated parking right outside the building. Please do not park outside other units.

FAQ