From 18 months, your baby is already big enough to make their first movements in the water. Before introducing your little one to swimming or a baby swimming activity, you should consider acquiring a high-quality baby arm float. This equipment, which ensures your child's protection in the water, comes in various forms or models.
To help you easily choose the right pool float for your baby, we present our selection of the best models currently available. Continue reading to learn more about this swimming essential.
Why practice baby swimming with your 18-month-old?
Baby swimming is an activity that allows your baby to get familiar with water. Beyond introducing them to the aquatic environment and new sensations, a baby swimming session is a great opportunity for the child and their parents to form strong bonds and develop a sense of unity.
Additionally, the child learns to overcome their fears and gain more self-confidence. As a psychomotor exercise, swimming helps the baby to learn to coordinate their movements, as all muscles are engaged during baby swimming.
The best arm floats for your 1 and a half-year-old
As mentioned earlier, there are several categories of arm floats for 18-month-old children. Each model has specific features.
Also, check out our articles dedicated to arm floats for 1-year-old babies and arm floats for 2-year-old children.
Here are the main swimming floats you can choose for your 1 and a half-year-old child.
Classic inflatable pool float for babies
The most widespread and oldest model, the classic inflatable pool float, helps children to float on the water's surface. It ensures excellent buoyancy for toddlers who have some autonomy and body control. Babies learning to swim can also use the inflatable swimming float.
Available in different designs, this safety material is often decorated with playful designs or cartoon character faces. Discover our complete collection below:
Compared to foam floats, it's less bulky. However, you shouldn't inflate it too much to avoid compressing your baby's arms. Furthermore, you need to ensure enough inflation to prevent loss.
Float with a body belt or belt pool float
In addition to classic inflatable floats, you can opt for floats equipped with a body belt. For example, you can protect your little one with a float featuring a neck float.
This essential protective gear will allow your child to have more confidence in themselves. The characteristics of the float with a neck float are quite specific:
- Made with Pearl Foam technology;
- Strong and durable;
- Designed with reinforced waterproof PVC;
- Stable and safe, etc.
The belt pool float is also ideal for 1 and a half-year-old children. It is practical for all aquatic activities and ensures the swimmer's buoyancy thanks to its two floats and belt.
Helping to combat aquaphobia, the belt pool float features a colorful design with very cute animal drawings.
Floats for children by Intex or Bestway
We cannot talk about the best floats for 18-month-old children without mentioning renowned brands like Intex and Bestway.
Thanks to the floats designed by these major players, your baby can fully enjoy aquatic activities, at the local pool or the beach. Easy to inflate, the swimming protections created by these brands allow for comfortable and unrestricted swimming.
Alternative flotation materials to pool floats
The swimming float is not the only safety equipment your child can use in the water. You can enhance their protection in the water by equipping them with other flotation materials like the float, life vest, and even the floating swimsuit.
The baby life float
There are two types of 18-month-old baby floats available in online and physical stores. On one hand, there's the neck float, which fits around the neck and keeps the little swimmer's head above water. On the other hand, there's the seat float, which is highly appreciated and popular with parents. It is equipped with an integrated harness system and keeps the child in a sitting position while in the water.
The swimming vest
Often foam or inflatable, the swimming vest is worn like a jacket. It is designed for children who feel comfortable in the water. This flotation material allows the little swimmer to gain autonomy.
Additionally, it contributes to the child's physical development and ensures stability during swimming lessons. Discover our complete collection of swimming vests for children below:
The floating swimsuit
Equipped with an integrated float, the floating swimsuit ensures the baby's stability, especially when paired with a swimming float. There are several types of swimsuits, but the ones with polystyrene floats are the most suitable. In fact, it stays attached to the skin even when the swimmer is out of the water.
Essential Precautions Before Buying a Pool Float for Your Child
When choosing a pool float for your child, safety and quality should be your top priorities. Here's what to consider:
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Check the Safety Standards
Ensure the float meets recognized safety certifications, such as ASTM or CPSIA standards in the United States. These certifications confirm that the floatation device has been rigorously tested for safety and functionality. -
Health Considerations
Before introducing your baby to the water, ensure they are ready for this experience. It's generally advised that babies complete their scheduled vaccinations, including those for illnesses like tetanus and polio. Always consult your pediatrician to confirm if your baby is ready for swimming activities. -
Sun and Water Protection
- Apply water-resistant sunscreen to protect your child's delicate skin from harmful UV rays.
- Equip your little one with a pair of swimming goggles to shield their eyes.
- Avoid swimming between 12 PM and 4 PM, the peak hours for sun exposure and heat, to keep your child safe and comfortable.
Taking these precautions ensures a fun and safe introduction to water activities for your child while giving you peace of mind.
