baby bunching it at the pool: what to expect

So now that you're all packed for the pool (see previous post about what to bring), the time has come to actually get out the door and head over there.  We're not sure why, but "fun" at the pool always seems to involve overcoming a series of obstacles.  Someone always takes a fall - either in or out of the water.  Someone has a giant poopy swim diaper mess (inevitably on the day you forget to throw in the diaper wipes).  Someone has their toy swiped by a bigger kid, leading to a meltdown they just can't recover from, five minutes after you've arrived.  And so on and so on. 

We have just a few tips for trying to head off some of the mini-disasters that frequently seem to occur. 

1)  Timing is everything.  As with all things Baby Bunching, timing is critical.  The best time to go to the pool if you have little ones is in the morning. Mornings always seem so much more laid back because the older kids usually aren't out yet so it is easier to manage the energy level and also keep your kids in your line of vision. You'll have a better chance to get a good spot in the shade because it's not crowded, and it's still not too hot yet, in most places. If you must venture out in afternoon or evening, just be sure you go after everyone has napped, because water play can be exhausting and overwhelming for some little ones so best to tackle it when everyone is well-rested.

2)  Plan ahead.  In addition to packing all the gear you will need, get everyone as ready as you possibly can BEFORE you leave the house.  That means tackle swim diapers, swimsuits, and sunscreens at home where there is plenty of air conditioning and baby gates.  There's nothing worse than trying to pin down an antsy toddler for sunblock while your baby crawls precariously towards the pool on hot cement.  Take care of as much as you can (including lunch/snack time) at home before hand.

3)  Choose your pool carefully.  When it comes to pools for Baby Bunchers, the smaller and less crowded, the better. Don't bother hauling your crew across town to the super cool aquatic center with water slides and high dives. You need something that's one step above the plastic baby pool in your backyard.  Small, private neighborhood pools are good.  Gradual entry (beach-style) pools are better.  Facilities with baby pools or splash pads gated off from the big pool are best.  And of course, pools with lifeguards on duty and are always preferred (not that this means you can take your eyes off your Bunch for ONE SINGLE SECOND, just that you will have a set of backup eyes).  Set yourself up for success by choosing your pool carefully.

4)  Have appropriate expectations.  You will not spend the whole day at the pool.  You will not relax at the pool.  You will not talk to your friends at the pool.  Your Bunch will likely last for an hour and a half, max, during which time you will constantly be either holding or scanning the baby pool to make sure all members of your Bunch are accounted for.  It is downright dangerous for Baby Bunchers to attempt socialize or relax while swimming.  Keep your eyes on the babies at all times.

5) Bring a buddy. Just because you can't catch up with your friends doesn't mean you should invite them. Kids have more fun with friends and you have extra eyes when you need to run a kid to the bathroom or find a band aid for the gashed toe. Having anyone you know around to help you if you need it is preferable.

6) Have a mechanism for pinning everyone down (i.e. a double stroller).  There is no place you will go where it will be more important to have a way to restrain all members of the Bunch, case need be.  On the off-chance that you have to go sprinting after one kid, you will want to have the other one safely buckled in (with the stroller brake set).  Bonus - every once in awhile, one kid will actually sit quietly in the stroller, allowing you to enjoy some quality pool time with the other kid.  The stroller helps you be prepared for that possibility.If your kids are older and the stroller isn't an option, snacks (good ones) work as a way to keep people in one place.

7)  Have a strategy for keeping everyone safe.  This deserves a whole separate post, especially since a couple of you have specifically requested this information.  Stay tuned for tomorrow's post on this topic...

Comments

[Molly]

As of yet, our strategy is that if Dad or another adult can't come along, we skip the pool completely and hit the splash pad at the park... I'm assuming they must have those in other cities too?

[Marla]

i am the same way...if i can't get another adult to join us then we do not go. we have splash parks in austin texas also. amber (the oldest) is just now getting to the point that she is not scared of it, so that is fun!

[Suzanne N]

I'm with the other two commenters, unless another grown up is along I just skip taking my 4 yr, 2 yr, and 5 mo to the pool. I'm just chicken like that.

[Erica]

I agree with all the above commenters, it's just not worth it!