FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Swimming Lessons for 3 month to 14 month olds
What are the benefits of baby swimming lessons?
Baby swimming offers many benefits for both you and your baby. Our lessons support your child’s physical, social and emotional development, as well as giving your child the opportunity to develop their language skills. The Turtle Tots swimming programme fundamentally teaches vital life-saving and water safety skills, something that will support your child’s confidence in the water throughout their entire lives. Baby swimming lessons also encourage bonding and attachment, giving parents the chance to spend quality time with their little ones cuddling, playing and learning together.
What do I need to bring to baby swimming lessons?
All Turtle Tots babies and toddlers must wear a double nappy system until they are fully toilet trained. A well fitted neoprene Happy Nappy should be worn over a swim nappy. We have some fantastic reusable options available in our shop. Alternatively, you can purchase disposables from any good baby retailer.
If your little one feels the cold, or you are planning on swimming in cooler pools between lessons, you can purchase a baby wetsuit.
Also, don’t forget your own swimming costume, towels and a warm snuggly outfit for your baby after the lessons.
When is the best time to start baby swimming?
Babies can start swimming lessons with Turtle Tots Ireland from three months of age. Our lessons for little ones take place in lovely warm pools in locations across Ireland. Only hydropools (32-34c) are suitable little ones to start swimming lessons before this age, which few of our pools are. For more information, please contact us.
Swimming Lessons for 14 month to 4 year olds
Why teach my toddler to swim?
The Turtle Tots philosophy is to ensure safety and water confidence, encouraging parents to fully utilise the benefits and enjoyment that can have swimming with their children – whether that is at our lessons, on holiday or trips to the pool. We also provide a great social environment for parents and toddlers, giving them the opportunity to meet other families and children, forging friendships for life.
When will my child learn to swim on their own?
The age a child learns to swim independently depends on many factors including ability, confidence, and regularity of swimming.
Introducing children to Turtle Tots from an early age, and continue regular lessons, means that by the age of 3 and a half many children will be swimming short distances independently.
Do lessons include submersions
Swimming underwater is not the main focus of Turtle Tots swimming lessons. Our award-winning swim programme does include natural submersions once your little one is ready. This will be different for every child and our teachers are fully trained to understand when this will be. However, most of our activities take place above the water, with lots of fun and games.
Swimming Lessons for 4 and 5 year olds
Do I get in the pool with my child?
Yes, our lessons are designed for parents to accompany their child into the pool. Our pools are warm and comfortable and shallow enough to stand up in so parents do not need to be confident swimmers to join in. Our teachers are fully trained and experienced in helping parents and carers to feel confident in the water and will support both you and your child throughout the whole programme.
Why teach my preschooler to swim?
The Turtle Tots philosophy is to ensure safety and water confidence, encouraging parents to fully utilise the benefits and enjoyment that can have swimming with their children – whether that is at our lessons, on holiday or trips to the pool. We also provide a great social environment for parents and toddlers, giving them the opportunity to meet other families and children, forging friendships for life.
When will my child learn to swim on their own?
The age a child learns to swim independently depends on many factors including ability, confidence, and regularity of swimming.
Introducing children to Turtle Tots from an early age, and continue regular classes, means that by the age of 3 and a half many children will be swimming short distances independently.
Franchising
Can I talk to an existing Turtle Tots franchisee before I make my final decision?
Of course! We will put you in touch with a successful franchisee who can tell you more about running a profitable business.
What support will I receive?
Lots! Visit our support page for details.
How large are Turtle Tots franchise territories?
Our territories are defined by postcode areas. Each territory has a population of roughly 400,000 people, and franchisees have exclusive rights to deliver Turtle Tots lessons within their territory.
Can I own another business or have another job alongside running a Turtle Tots franchise?
We prefer our franchisees to not have other businesses or jobs, as this can impact the success of a Turtle Tots business.
How long is a Turtle Tots franchise agreement?
Franchises are awarded for an initial five-year term, with no charges to renew for subsequent five-year terms.
