Planning a family swim day can be an exhilarating experience filled with fun and bonding moments. Whether you’re heading to a local pool, a beach, or even setting up a paddling pool in your back garden, there’s plenty to consider ensuring everyone has a blast.
Below are some of the essential tips and tricks for a seamless swim day experience:
- Choose The Right Location
Selecting the perfect spot for your family swim day is crucial. Consider the age range of your family members when picking a location.
If you have young children, look for shallow, safe waters and a lifeguard presence. For older children and adults, you might want a place with more activities, like diving boards or water slides.
Moreover, don’t forget to check the weather forecast and water conditions before you set off. Considering swimming lessons can also be beneficial, especially for younger or inexperienced swimmers. Look into local certified instructors or swimming lesson providers similar to State Swim. This way, you’ll feel more confident in choosing a location that works best for your family.
- Pack Properly
Once you decide on a location, put together a swimming bag with essentials. These include:
- Swimsuits, goggles, sunscreen, hats, cover-ups for everyone
- Towels and extra dry clothes
- Flotation devices, if needed
- Snacks and water
- Toys like balls, noodles, rings
- First aid kit
Take along anything you need for your chosen location and pack extra swimwear. Having your own toys and flotation devices may help you enjoy savings and won’t make you rely on rental equipment.
- Set Expectations
Before arriving, set ground rules and expectations with your kids for behaviour during the swim outing. Go over things like:
- No running around wet areas
- Following pool rules
- Staying within sight of parents around the water
- Taking breaks to reapply sunscreen
- Using appropriate behaviour and language
Setting expectations helps avoid discipline issues.
- Apply Sunscreen Liberally
Sunscreen application is crucial for protection against the sun. Choose a water-resistant, broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher. Apply it generously to all exposed areas at least 30 minutes before you start swimming.
It’s important to reapply sunscreen every two hours, but crucially, do it immediately after swimming or excessive sweating, even if it’s been less than two hours since the last application. This ensures continuous protection as sunscreen can wash off or diminish effectiveness during water activities. Pay attention to often-missed areas such as ears, feet, and the back of the knees.
For easier application, especially for kids, stick sunscreens can be a good choice. If using spray sunscreens, exercise caution to avoid inhalation. It’s advisable to spray the sunscreen onto your hands first and then apply it to the face and other areas of the body. This method ensures more thorough coverage and reduces the risk of inhalation.
- Watch Kids Closely
Vigilant supervision is necessary to keep your kids safe on any family swim day. Actively watch children when they are in or near water and avoid distractions.
If possible, appoint an adult to be the designated watcher of swimmers for each shift. You may also trade off so parents can rotate and take breaks. Moreover, never leave young children unsupervised near water, regardless of swimming ability.
- Prepare Snacks And Drinks
Swimming works up an appetite. Pack nutritious snacks and drinks to refuel kids throughout the day. Ideas include water, juices, fruits, granola bars, sandwiches, pretzels, and trail mix.
Keep snacks simple and non-messy. Have plenty for repeat snacking to replace nutrients burned during swimming. Stay hydrated and avoid dehydration.
- Fun And Games
Swim days are all about fun! Bring along inflatables, beach balls, and other water toys. Plan some games like Marco Polo or pool volleyball to keep everyone entertained. If you’re at the beach, building sandcastles or a friendly sand sculpture competition can be a blast.
- Staying Hydrated And Nourished
Don’t underestimate the importance of staying hydrated, especially on a hot day. Bring plenty of water and encourage everyone to take regular sips. Pack a picnic or snacks that are easy to eat and won’t spoil in the heat. Fresh fruits, sandwiches, and healthy snacks are great options.
- Taking Breaks
Regular breaks are vital, particularly for children, to avoid exhaustion and overheating. Utilize these breaks for rest, snacks, and sunscreen reapplication. They also provide a chance to regroup and check in with each other.
- Wrapping Up The Day
As the day winds down, gather your belongings and make sure you leave nothing behind. If you’re in a public place, respect the environment by disposing of rubbish properly and being mindful of the local wildlife and natural surroundings. This is especially important at beaches and natural water bodies where wildlife can be impacted by human activities. Dry off, change into your spare clothes, and reflect on the day’s adventures on your journey home.
Conclusion
A family swim day is a fantastic way to bond and create lasting memories. With these tips, you’re set for an enjoyable, safe, and hassle-free day. So, grab your swim gear, pack your sunscreen, and dive into a day of aquatic fun!
