Getting ready for your first lesson

You've booked it in, and now the questions start. What do we bring? What do we tell them? Will they even like it? A little prep goes a long way, so here's everything you need to know before you walk through our doors for the first time.

What to bring

• A swimsuit for your little one (and parent if they are in the pool too!) that’s snug rather than baggy. For little ones under 3, a Let’s Swim approved Splash About swim nappy is a must, to avoid any accidents in the pool. You can purchase these from reception if needed.

• A towel each. If you're getting in the pool with your child, pack one for you too.

• A dry set of clothes. For both of you if you're swimming with them. Remember in the cooler months to pack warm clothes and even a beanie for extra warmth.

• A swim cap if over 3. Caps are optional under 3, but required from age 3 onwards to help keep our pool clean and filters clear. Bring your own or you can purchase from reception.

• Snacks for after. A small snack and drink for the trip home works wonders. Lessons work up an appetite.

Leave the floaties and inflatables at home. They're fun for playtime, but we don’t use them in the lessons.

Talking to your child beforehand

How much you say depends on their age.

Under 3s will be in the pool with you, so there's less to explain and more to model. Talk about the pool like it's exciting, not scary. Kids pick up on nerves fast, so if you're relaxed, they're more likely to be too. A simple "we're going to the pool to play and learn" is plenty.

For 3 years and over, as they’re doing the lesson on their own, it helps to talk about it a bit more. Let them know their teacher will be with them the whole time, that they'll play games and learn new things, and that you'll be watching and cheering them on. Steer clear of promises like "you won't have to put your face in the water" in case it doesn't hold up. Better to keep it open: "you'll try some new things, and your teacher will help you every step of the way."

We also recommend checking out our website and social media before the lessons to show your children what to expect, what a class might be like and our teachers. This can help settle nerves because they have seen the centre from home.

What to expect when you arrive

Come a little early on your first visit, ten minutes is plenty, so you're not rushing straight from the car park into the water. It gives you time to find the changing rooms, get settled, and let your child take in the new environment before the lesson starts.

Our pool is heated to a cosy 32 degrees, and it's magnesium based rather than heavily chlorinated, so it's gentle on sensitive skin and eyes. Most kids find it more comfortable than a standard pool, which helps a lot on day one.

If there are tears, that's okay

New environment, new faces, new sounds bouncing off the walls, it's a lot to take in. Some kids dive straight in without a backward glance. Others need a few weeks to warm up. Both are completely normal, and our teachers see it every single day. They know how to bring a hesitant swimmer along gently, without any pressure.

If you're in the pool with your child, your calm is doing a lot of the work. Stay close, stay upbeat, and let the teacher guide the lesson.

We'll see you poolside

First lessons are a big moment, for you and for them, but at Let’s Swim you’ll be supported throughout your time with us. If you've got questions before your first visit, we're always happy to help.