The Best Swimwear for Indoor Lessons (ages 1-8)

Indoor swim lessons can be a magical experience for little ones, but getting the right swimwear sorted can feel like navigating a maze. From wriggly babies who refuse to stay still, to toddlers who suddenly need the loo mid-lesson, choosing the right gear makes all the difference. We've put together this guide to help you find the perfect swimwear for every stage of your child's swimming journey.

Babies (Ages 1-2): Keeping Warm and Secure

Your baby's first swimming experiences should be comfortable and stress-free. Their first time can make or break how they feel about going to the pool and how much they will enjoy lessons going forward. At this age, the biggest challenges are keeping them warm in cooler pool water and ensuring reliable leak protection.

Happy Nappy™ - The Foundation of Baby Swimming

The Happy Nappy™ is where every swimming journey starts. Made from super-soft 1mm neoprene, it's ergonomically designed to cup your baby's bottom and prevent gaping. The specialist waist and thigh ribs form a secure seal that prevents solids from escaping into the pool, but like all swim nappies, it doesn't hold urine.

What makes the Happy Nappy™ special is how it moves with your baby. There's no tight elastic to leave red marks or cause discomfort. The neoprene is chlorine-resistant too, so it maintains its shape and protective qualities, swim after swim. 

We recommend our Happy Nappy Duo™ for swim schools that require a double-layer swim nappy system. This nappy is designed to mitigate the need for disposable nappies, and its silver lining is scientifically proven to kill germs that cause tummy bugs, such as Cryptosporidium and E. Coli! It’s also one less thing to remember to pack when you’re rushing to get out the door and make it to class on time. 

Happy Nappy™ Wetsuit - Perfect for Chillier Pools

The Happy Nappy™ Wetsuit incorporates a full Happy Nappy™ within a cosy wetsuit body, giving you leak protection and warmth in one garment. No need for multiple layers or complicated changing room juggling acts.

The wetsuit keeps babies comfortable in water temperatures as low as 28°C, extending pool time and making lessons more enjoyable.

Toddlers (Ages 2-3): Managing the Wriggle Factor

Toddlers are wonderfully unpredictable creatures who often have strong opinions about what they will and won't wear. The key at this stage is finding swimwear that's quick and easy to put on, because standing still isn't really their forte.

Happy Nappy™ Costume - One Piece, Less Fuss

The Happy Nappy™ Costume is perfect for wriggly toddlers who don't want multiple items on them. It's essentially a swimming costume with built-in Happy Nappy™ protection, so you won't have to wrestle with separate pieces while your toddler tries to escape.

The design looks like regular swimwear, which helps toddlers feel more grown-up, but gives you the peace of mind of reliable leak protection. It's particularly good for little girls who are showing interest in potty training but aren't quite there yet, as it doesn’t seem like you’re putting a nappy on them. 

After Swim Onesies - Changing Room Heroes

One thing many parents don't consider until they're shivering in a changing room is what happens after the lesson. After Swim Onesies are waterproof, cosy garments that keep little ones warm and dry whilst parents get dressed.

These are especially valuable in chilly leisure centre changing rooms. You can pop the onesie straight over wet swimwear, keeping your child comfortable and preventing them from getting cold or cranky during the post-swim routine.

They’re also great to pop on once they’re dry to keep them warm in the car on the way home. Let’s face it, they’ll probably fall asleep after all that splashing about, so you want them to be comfy. 

Children (Ages 3-8): Growing Independence and Confidence

As children get older, their needs become more varied. Some may need discreet protection for bowel incontinence, others might want coverage to feel confident in the pool. This age group also starts venturing underwater and may need protection for sensitive eyes and ears. 

Splash Jammers™ - Discreet Protection

For children who need bowel incontinence protection but want to look like everyone else, Splash Jammers™ for toddlers and Jammers for children are the perfect solution. Made from comfortable, soft neoprene with medical-grade silicone seals around the thighs, they offer reliable protection whilst looking exactly like sporty swim shorts.

The beauty of Jammers lies in their discretion. Children feel confident and included because they look like regular swimwear, but parents have peace of mind knowing there's reliable protection against embarrassing leaks.

Jammers come in designs suitable for boys and girls, and they can be worn without any additional swim nappy underneath for most swimming activities.

Go Splash Swim Vests - Building Water Confidence

As children progress in their swimming ability, Go Splash Swim Vests provide gentle support while they build confidence. These lightweight vests, with non-removable floats, are perfect for holidays or regular pool visits.

The vests hold children in the correct swimming position, supporting their natural buoyancy whilst allowing them to practice their strokes. They're compact and travel-friendly, making them ideal for family holidays where pool time is precious.

Please remember that all of our swimming aids are designed to support children in learning to swim; they are not lifesaving devices. They should only be used with continuous adult supervision.  

Modesty and Comfort Options

For children who prefer more coverage, rash vests, available in short-sleeved, long-sleeved and premium designs, provide excellent modesty protection while also offering UV protection and warmth. They're particularly good for children who feel self-conscious or prefer not to have too much skin on show. 

While they’re ideal for use during indoor swimming lessons for additional coverage, they’re also perfect for outdoor pools, holidays, or even playing out in the garden due to their UV protection. Suncream should always be worn on exposed skin. 

Essential Accessories for Indoor Swimming

Beyond the basic swimwear, there are several accessories that can make indoor swimming lessons more comfortable and enjoyable.

Goggles - Ready for Underwater Adventures

Once children are ready to put their faces in the water, good goggles become essential. Our children's goggles are designed with smaller faces in mind, providing a comfortable seal without being too tight.

Goggles protect eyes from chlorine irritation and help children see clearly underwater, building their confidence for submersion activities and eventually proper swimming strokes.

Earbands - Protection for Sensitive Ears

Some children are prone to ear infections or simply find water in their ears uncomfortable. Neoprene earbands provide a snug seal, helping to protect ears and keep earbuds in place. They prevent water from entering the ear canal while still allowing children to hear instructions clearly.

Earbands are particularly useful for children who've had previous ear infections or who have grommets fitted. They're also helpful for any child who gets upset by the sensation of water in their ears.

Additionally: Keeping Busy Between Lessons

Sometimes you arrive early for lessons, or your child finishes before older siblings. Having a few pool toys in your bag can make these waiting periods much more enjoyable.

Pool Toys for Entertainment

Splash balls, floating toys, and sensory play items can keep children entertained and help them associate the pool with fun rather than just lessons. 

Simple floating toys also help children practice reaching and grasping movements in the water, which supports their overall motor development and water confidence.

Float Selection for Holidays

If you're planning a family holiday with pool time, consider investing in some additional swimming aids. Float jackets with removable floats are excellent for holidays because you can adjust the support level as children gain confidence throughout the trip.

While your child may be swimming without a float jacket during lessons, they may be more focused on playing in the pool than learning to swim on holiday. A float vest can help give them the confidence they need in a new pool. 

The adjustable nature means one float jacket can support a child from tentative paddling right through to confident swimming, making it excellent value. Remember that adult supervision is required when using these swimming aids, and they should not be used in the sea.

Making the Right Choice

Choosing swimwear for indoor lessons doesn't have to be overwhelming. Start with the basics (reliable leak protection and warmth), then add accessories based on your child's specific needs and interests.

Remember that the best swimwear is what works for your child. Something that's quick to get on and off might be best if you're dealing with multiple children or time pressures.

Most importantly, remember to apply sun cream to any exposed skin, even when swimming indoors, as some pools have skylights or glass walls that let UV rays through.

Ready to kit out your little swimmer? Browse our complete range of age-appropriate swimwear and accessories, designed to make every swimming lesson a splash!