Diving Into Summer: What to Expect at the Norfolk Outdoor Pool
Diving Into Summer: What to Expect at the Norfolk Outdoor Pool
Summer is officially here, and at Katie’s Kickers, that means it’s time for one of our favorite annual traditions: moving our lessons outside! Starting June 8th, our summer session officially kicks off at our beautiful, heated outdoor Norfolk pool location.
There is something truly magical about swimming under the open sky. While the transition from an indoor pool to an outdoor one is incredibly exciting, it also brings a few new elements for our young swimmers (and their parents) to navigate.
To help your family get the absolute most out of our 10-week summer session (running through August 16th), we’ve put together a quick guide on what to expect and how to prep your swimmer for outdoor success.
1. The Benefits of Swimming in the Sunshine
Moving outdoors is not just a change of scenery, it is actually fantastic for your child’s development and water confidence.
- Real-World Environment: Most recreational swimming happens outdoors. Practicing in an outdoor pool helps kids get used to natural elements like wind, shadows, and the occasional passing cloud, making them safer, more adaptable swimmers.
- A Natural Mood Booster: Safe exposure to fresh air and natural sunlight provides a healthy dose of Vitamin D and helps burn off that extra summer energy, usually leading to excellent post-lesson naps!
2. Don't Worry, It’s Heated!
June mornings in Virginia can sometimes still have a little bit of a crisp breeze. Parents often ask if the water will be too chilly for smaller infants in our Parent & Me classes or for kids in our private lessons.
Rest assured, our Norfolk pool is fully
heated. We keep the water at an optimal, comfortable temperature so our swimmers can focus on their kicks, bubbles, and strokes without shivering.
3. Your Summer Lesson Checklist
To make your transition to the outdoor pool as smooth as possible, we recommend adding a few specific items to your swim bag this June:
- Sunscreen First: Please apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen to your child before arriving at the pool so it has time to absorb.
- Goggles and Hats: The summer sun can be bright! If your child is in our older independent groups or the Guppy swim team bootcamp, a good pair of goggles is essential. A sun hat for before and after the lesson is also a great idea.
- Label Everything: From water bottles to towels, summer swim gear tends to look alike. A quick sharpie label on your child's belongings helps ensure everything makes it back home with you.
- A Warm Towel or Change of Clothes: Because the air temperature can change, having a cozy towel or a dry change of clothes ready immediately after they exit the water keeps the post-lesson experience happy and tear-free.
We Can’t Wait to See You Poolside!
Whether your child is splashing with you in our Parent & Me classes or refining their endurance to prep for a summer swim team, swimming outdoors is a milestone that defines childhood summers.
Our small group and private schedules are locked in, the water is warming up, and Coach Katie and the team are ready to make this the safest, most fun summer yet!
See you at the pool on June 8th!
