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As the summer sun starts to shine brighter, many families are looking forward to spending time by the pool. If you have a toddler, you know how much they enjoy splashing around and soaking up the sun. However, ensuring their safety and comfort is paramount! Here are some essential items to make your toddler’s pool experience safe, enjoyable, and memorable this summer.
1. Swim Diapers
Before heading to the pool, don’t forget to pack a few swim diapers! Unlike regular diapers, swim diapers are designed to prevent leaks in the water, helping to keep accidents at bay. They are a must-have for toddlers who are not yet potty-trained. Often times for the pool we will use reusable swim diapers which work great! If we go to the beach, we will more often use disposable swim diapers because of all the sand. It is just easier to throw the disposable diaper away than to mess with sand in a reusable diaper.
TIP: If you are traveling to the pool, put a regular diaper on over their swim diaper so it catches any pee on the way there! Then simply take it off and dispose of it before swimming. Easy-peasy.
2. UV-Protective Swimwear
Protecting your toddler’s delicate skin from the sun’s harmful rays is crucial. Even though regular swimsuits/trunks for your tot are SO cute, you’ll want to try and opt for UV-protective swimwear that covers most of their body instead. Look for clothing with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) ratings for added sun protection. Thankfully there are so many cute options for rash guards and long-sleeved suits nowadays!
Some of our favorite toddler GIRL options are:
RuffleButts Long-sleeved Peach Swimsuit
Carter’s Long-sleeved Flower Swimsuit
XFGIRLS Yellow Flower Long-sleeved Swimsuit
Some of our favorite toddler BOY options are:
RuggedButts Striped Rash Guard Swimsuit
MILANKERR Banana Rash Guard and Swim Trunks
Gerber Surfboard Rash Guard Swimsuit
Gerber Good Vibes Swim Trunks and Rash Guard Suit
3. Floatation Devices
While toddlers should always be supervised in the water, floatation devices provide an extra layer of safety. Choose age-appropriate floaties, life vests, or swim aids that are approved by safety standards. These devices can give your child more confidence in the water while keeping them safe. Ideally, you should use something that is Coast Guard Approved which means it has undergone and passed several safety tests. We always opt for a life vest over puddle jumpers for increased safety.
Here are some great Coast Guard Approved options:
Stearns Original Puddle Jumper
4. Sunscreen
Apply a generous amount of sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) on your toddler’s exposed skin. Reapply every couple of hours, especially after swimming or towel-drying. Look for sunscreens specifically formulated for children to avoid any skin irritations. Our favorite sunscreen option for our toddler is the Thinksport Kids Mineral Sunscreen. It works surprisingly well and is unscented, waterproof for up to 80 minutes, and has broad spectrum protection.
5. Water Toys
Keep your toddler entertained with fun water toys such as squirters, floating balls, and colorful rings. These toys not only add to the enjoyment but also encourage physical activity and water play.
Some of our favorite pool toys include:
Disney Finding Dory Mr. Ray’s Dive and Catch Game
3 Pack Animal Water Guns for Kids
6. Shade Tent or Umbrella
Create a shaded area near the pool where your toddler can take breaks from the sun. A shade tent or umbrella provides a cool retreat for rest and snacks, preventing overheating and sunburn.
It’s also not a bad idea to have your child wear a hat in and out of the water. Their little heads are so sensitive to the sun and it is the best way to help prevent sunburn on their scalp. We love the Green Sprouts swim hat for our toddler which keeps the sun off of her head and neck, and out of her eyes. You could also try some sunglasses that have a strap for even further protection, but your toddler may or may not want to keep them on. Do what you can and go with the flow!
7. Snacks and Hydration
Swimming can be tiring, so be sure to pack plenty of snacks and water for your toddler. Opt for easy-to-eat, healthy snacks like sliced fruits, crackers, and cheese sticks. Hydration is key to keeping them energized and hydrated during pool time.
8. Towel and Change of Clothes
Don’t forget to pack a cozy towel and a change of clothes for your toddler. After swimming, drying off and changing into fresh clothes will keep them comfortable and prevent chills. Choose a simple hooded towel or try an adorable towel poncho to double as a swim coverup.
9. First Aid Kit
Accidents can happen, so it’s wise to have a basic first aid kit handy. Include items like adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any necessary medications in case of minor mishaps. We always have a first aid kit handy in case of an emergency or if a boo-boo happens! You can never be too prepared and it’s better to be safe than sorry.
10. Positive Reinforcement
Finally, make pool time a positive experience for your toddler by praising their efforts and accomplishments in the water. Encourage them to explore and learn new swimming skills while always prioritizing safety.
Swim lessons are great to start from an early age and will help your child become more familiar and confident in the water. There are several different stages of swim lessons depending on difficulty level and age. It is wise to set your child up for success by helping them to learn how to swim in an effective and safe manner. Look up where the closest swim lessons are in your area and start lessons for your child today!
With kids, I think we can all agree that being overprepared is better than being underprepared! By having these pool essentials for toddlers ready, you can create a safe, enjoyable, and memorable summer experience for your little one.
Happy splashing!
What are your must-have pool items for your toddler?
XOXO,
Katie
