Summer summer summertime… and that means pool days, beach trips, and plenty of fun in the sun – for us and our little ones!
But what happens when you have a child that doesn’t know how to swim?
Does the thought of pool days and beach fun cause you stress?
Well, I’m here to help! Give yourself priceless peace of mind by getting geared up with the proper life jacket for your child.
This will allow more freedom and confidence for both you and your little one!
Choosing the Right Life Jacket for Your Little One
When it comes to life jackets for little ones, safety and comfort are key.
Some things to consider are the confidence level of your child, the environment and activities, and if you want a little bit of flare with the design.
Let’s dive in (pun intended!) to all of our top options!
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Infant / Toddler Life Jackets (Up to 30 lbs)
These jackets are designed specifically for babies and toddlers who cannot hold themselves upright in the water.
Most typically feature a buoyant headrest and a crotch strap for added security.
I love these for the freedom and confidence it brings to both you and your little one.
The Top Five
Poolmaster Learn-to-Swim Vest
This vest is my personal favorite!
My oldest learned to swim because of the features of this awesome product. It is true to its claims!
With that said, this one does not have neck support and is a great option if you are transitioning from infant to toddler and want to promote actual swimming techniques that lead to proper swimming skills.
Weight Range: 24 – 40 lbs
Features: High-quality neoprene with an easy-to-use, slightly oversized zipper for effortless on/off operation. There is an adjustable security strap that is wrapped for comfort and simple to adjust as needed. Internally, there are removable cell foam sections that can be removed as your child gains confidence. The Poolmast vest is ideal for practicing swimming!
Get it HERE
Stohlquist Infant PFD
Weight Range: <30 lbs
Features: This life jacket boasts a comfortable design and allows your child to move freely as they start to paddle and kick in the water! It also offers easy on/off features and a secure fit. It’s known for being gentle on a child’s neck and has a grab handle for easy rescue.
Get it HERE
Chriffer Kids Swim Vest / Life Jacket
Weight Range: 22-66 lbs
Features: A favorite for its u-shaped design that has a more ergonomic fit so it’s more natural to the body. This life jacket also features a shoulder harness and arm wings for added support and buoyancy.
Get it HERE
O’Neill Infant Superlite
Weight Range: <30 lbs
Features: This option is known for its comfortable neoprene construction and offers great freedom of movement for your little one with its minimal bulk design allowing full mobility and easy on and off. It also is a U.S. Coast Guard Approved Personal Flotation Device (Type II).
Get it HERE
HyperLite Elite Toddler Life Jacket
Weight Range: <30 lbs
Features: The HyperLite Elite features a soft, breathable design that moves with your child and won’t restrict their movement in the water. The vest is also designed with armholes that allow for a full range of motion, a waist and leg buckle strap, and is US Coast Guard-approved.
Get it HERE
Child Life Jackets (30-50 lbs)
These jackets provide more buoyancy than infant life jackets and are designed for young children who are starting to learn to swim. They often have adjustable straps and buckles for a snug fit and come in fun colors and designs to keep your child happy to wear them.
The Top Four
Stearns Kids Classic Series Vest
Weight Range: 30 to 50 lbs
Features: This is a classic choice for a reason! It’s comfortable, affordable, and US Coast Guard-approved. It features a variety of fun colors and comes in sizes that fit toddlers up to pre-schoolers.
Get it HERE
Body Glove Paddle Pals Life Jacket
Weight Range: 33 – 55 lbs
Features: This fun little jacket has been a go-to because of its design and comfort. There are endless fun colors and characters to choose from. This jacket has a multi-panel design that is not only exceptional for keeping your child afloat but also for comfort. I love the safety shoulder harness that keeps the life jacket securely in place. And of course, US Coast Guard approved!
Get it HERE
Stearns Kids Life Jacket with Heads-Up Flotation
Weight Range: 30 – 50 lbs
Features: This vest will give a beginner swimmer a bit more confidence with the heads-up neck float feature. USCG-approved and treated with a special antimicrobial coating to resist odor, mildew, and fungus is a great feature of this life jacket!
Get it HERE
Poolmaster Learn-to-Swim Vest
I am including the Poolmaster Swim Vest for older children as well. They have a larger version that fits children from 3-6 years of age.
Weight Range: 40 – 66 lbs
Features: Same great features as the infant version just a bit larger for our older kiddos!
Get it HERE
In addition, here are a few factors to consider:
- Size: This is the most important factor! A life jacket that’s too big can slip off, and one that’s too small will restrict movement and hinder buoyancy. Life jackets come in sizes based on weight. Always double-check the weight range on the label to ensure a snug but comfortable fit.
- Comfort: If the jacket is not comfortable it will be harder for your little to want to wear it. For this reason features like adjustable straps, soft materials, and a design that ensures comfortable movement are key.
- Activity: Consider the activity your child will be participating in. For example, if they are kayaking or canoeing, you might want a life jacket with a high back for added support.
The Snug Test
Once you’ve chosen and received your life jacket, it’s crucial to ensure a proper fit. Here’s the “snug test” to follow:
- Help your child put on the life jacket. Fasten all the straps and buckles.
- Lift your child by the shoulders of the life jacket. The life jacket should stay securely in place, and your child’s chin should not slip through the neck opening.
- Check for armhole fit. Make sure your child’s arms can move freely without the life jacket riding up.
- Perform a buoyancy test. In a safe, shallow area of water, have your child lean back in the water. A properly fitted life jacket will turn most children face up and keep their ears and mouth above the water.
Conclusion
Summer fun and water go hand-in-hand, and with the right precautions, you can help ensure your child has a safe and enjoyable experience. By choosing the correct life jacket, ensuring a proper fit, and following general safety tips, you can give yourself peace of mind and create lasting summer memories with your little one.
Remember, mama, water safety is the most important accessory your child can wear around water. So stay vigilant, have fun, and make a splash!
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