It was the night before Christmas, and all through the house, there wasn’t a sound; it was ever so nice… and that’s because you’ll be sleeping soundly knowing you cracked the Christmas gifting this year! 

Christmas shopping can be overwhelming, especially when shopping for babies and toddlers who either haven’t shown keen interests yet or change what they love every other week. We know the drill, if you’re a parent, you’re trying to think of a gift that won’t add more clutter to your home and will actually be used. If you’re looking for a gift for a little loved one, you’re wondering what the parents will actually appreciate, that won’t be stored in the re-gift basket at the back of the wardrobe come January. 

Here’s how to avoid a living room that looks like an Argos Warehouse and a Christmas day of forced thank yous. Why not give something that actually supports one of the most important skills little ones will ever learn? Swimming.

Now, before you think "swimwear for Christmas? Really?" hear us out! At Splash About, we've spent over 20 years creating award-winning swimming products, and trust us, parents absolutely love receiving these as gifts. Why? Unlike the trendy toy everyone's buying this year, quality swimming gear is used week after week, month after month. It solves real problems (cold babies, pool accidents, stressful changing rooms), and it supports something genuinely important: building water confidence and safety.

So grab a cuppa, get comfy, and let's explore some Christmas gift ideas that'll have parents genuinely thanking you come January.

Look, we're not saying you should only buy swimming-related gifts; we’re parents ourselves and know kids of all ages do need some toys to unwrap on Christmas morning. But here's why popping some swimming gear under the tree is actually genius.

First up: swimming skills are essential, we're not talking "nice to have",  we're talking crucial life skills that could save their life one day. Water confidence affects everything from beach holidays to bath times, and starting young makes such a difference.

But beyond the serious stuff, think about the practical side. If a family's doing weekly swimming lessons, that's 50+ pool sessions a year and 50+ disposable swim nappies! A reusable swim nappy might not sound that exciting initially, but it'll save them a fortune and lower the risk of embarrassing faecal leaks. Parents love gifts that save them money and embarrassment.

Then there's the problem every swimming parent knows: babies get cold. Fast. You've driven 20 minutes to the pool, paid for parking, got everyone changed (which is its own special form of chaos), and then your baby's shivering after 10 minutes in the water. Session over, tears all round, everyone's miserable. Proper thermal wear? Game changer. We're talking extended pool time, happy babies, parents who can actually enjoy swimming instead of watching the clock anxiously.

The environmental types will love you (it's made from recycled plastics), the budget-conscious will adore you (saving on buying disposables), and the parents will really love you when they never have to experience the horror of a pool accident again.

Picture this: you're at the pool with a baby. They're loving the water, splashing about, having a whale of a time. Then, suddenly, shivering. Lips are going a bit blue. The universal baby signal for "I'm freezing, and we need to leave RIGHT NOW." Ten minutes of swimming, forty minutes of getting ready and travelling. Not exactly ideal, is it?

Now, why does this matter so much? Baby’s bodies can’t regulate their temperature as well as adults, so they need some help. Even heated pools can feel cold to them. When babies are uncomfortable, they can't focus on actually enjoying the water and building confidence. The Warm In One™ means swimming becomes something the whole family genuinely enjoys together, not something you're rushing through before the inevitable meltdown.

Okay, hands up,  who's experienced the joy of trying to dress a damp, cold, tired child in a cramped changing cubicle while they stick to every item of clothing you're attempting to put on them? Everyone? Yeah, thought so.

It can also double as a comfy puddle suit to keep little ones warm while they play outside, a versatile suit that comes in fun designs kids love wearing.  

Choosing swimming gear when you're not entirely sure what babies need at different stages can feel a bit overwhelming.   

This is where our Learn to Swim Bundles save your sanity. We've done all the thinking for you, putting together carefully curated collections that actually make sense for specific developmental stages.

So, a bundle might include something like an Early Years Swim Vest, a Happy Nappy™, a rash vest, and beach shoes. Essentially, everything a child needs for confident and comfortable swimming sessions, all in one package. No guesswork. It’s the ideal gift for families who go on plenty of pool holidays or water park adventures. 

One important thing: bundles come with guidance about appropriate use, including the crucial reminder that adult supervision is always required. Our swimming aids support learning, but they're not lifesaving devices, and they're designed for pools rather than open water or the sea.

 Want to take it up another notch? Here are some ideas for making your gift extra thoughtful.  

If you’re looking to go above and beyond with your gift giving this year, why not pair a Learn to Swim Bundle with swimming lessons at their local leisure centre? 

Memorable gifts are those that enable experiences, build confidence, or make difficult situations easier. Swimming gifts tick all three boxes, supporting children's development whilst giving families opportunities to create joyful memories together in the water.

This Christmas, consider skipping the usual toys and choose gifts that contribute to life skills, water safety, and the simple pleasure of playing in the pool without stress or discomfort. You'll be giving something that's used, appreciated, and genuinely makes a difference to young swimmers' experiences.

Every child deserves the confidence and safety that comes with learning to swim. This Christmas, your thoughtful gift could be the beginning of their lifelong love affair with water, and honestly? That's worth celebrating.

Happy splashing, and happy Christmas from all of us at Splash About! 🎄