Free Family Swim Times (In Boston)
- DommiesBlessed
- Sep 6, 2023
- 2 min read
Updated: Jul 7, 2024
Family swim is reserved for families. The typical pool schedule is packed with lap swim, swim lessons, and even swim meets. So family swim is a really special time where families can enjoy the entire pool together. It's perfect for ...
families looking to hone their swimming skills
families looking for a fun sport/activity to do together
families with little ones who are just getting used to water
families with kids who aren't interested in formal swim lessons
kids who love water play
Below are indoor pools with current family swim times. Please know BCYF (Boston Centers for Youth and Families) regularly adds times to their schedule, which you can check out here.
Location | Days + Times |
Curtis Hall Pool (Jamaica Plain) | Fri | 4:00pm - 4:45pm; 6:00pm - 6:45pm |
Flaherty Pool (Roslindale) | Wed and Fri | 7:15pm - 8:15 pm |
Mason Pool (Roxbury) | Fri | 7:30pm - 8:25pm; Sat | 1:30pm - 3:00pm |
Paris Street Pool (East Boston) | Tues and Thurs | 5:00pm - 5:45pm; Wed and Fri | 6:00pm - 6:45pm |
Are Family Swim Times Crowded?
No. We're not sure if family swim is under promoted or if certain locations don't get much traffic. Often times one family can have the entire pool to themselves. Weekends are probably different.
Are Lifeguards Onsite?
Yes! While family swim is free (for now), they may require you to register online. According to the BCYF Aquatics Director, this is to make sure the pool has enough lifeguards on staff. We believe registration is also a data collection tool to keep track of facility use, understand how many families are being served, and what neighborhoods they are coming from.
Can You Bring Water Toys?
For safety reasons, most pools will not allow you to bring outside toys. For example, if your little one wants to bring their favorite rubber ducky, it can get caught in pool drains. Some facilities may have (and let you use their) diving toys, balls, and other water entertainment.
Any Tips On What To Pack?
We think it’s best to pack light when traveling with little ones. Instead of packing the following items, consider wearing your swim clothes to the pool (especially if you plan to walk). If you're driving, you can pack a change of clothes so that no one feels damp. Below are more suggestions...
Swim Diaper
Swim diapers are required by most facilities. Their job is to keep poop out of the water. There are disposable and reusable ones online.
Tankini
Tankinis are 2-piece swimsuits that are easier to take off for last-minute bathroom runs. Here's our favorite brand.
Kids Changing Towel
Kids changing towels are wearable hooded towels that keep little ones warm. They also make it easier to privately change in public spaces. We love this brand!
Oversized Towel
If you can't find an adult-sized changing towel, then oversized towels are extra-large and perfect for families.
Flip-flops
If your little one hasn't mastered walking in flip flops -- sandals, water shoes, or any footwear that won't get ruined in moist places is best. Many parents like Osh Kosh, because they are fairly easy for little ones to put on.
Swim Bag
Consider having a designated swim bag for all of your family's swim gear, especially if you plan to go swimming on a weekly basis. This way you do not have to repack every time you go swimming. Backpacks are preferable, because they offer a ton of space, and allow you to be hands-free if you have to pick up your little one.
Wet Bag
Some facilities will have a swimsuit dryer that removes excess water. Nevertheless, you may still want to keep dry items separate from damp ones. Bumpkins is a bestselling wet bag brand on Amazon.
Life Jacket
Most facilities will have life jackets onsite, but if you plan to spend a ton of time in the water (at beaches and other outdoor pools) a life jacket is a great investment. Our youngest loved this Minnie Mouse one.
Soap
Taking a cleansing shower right after swimming helps ensure chlorine is not sitting on your family's skin. Some facilities may have soap dispensers onsite, but bringing your own soap will ensure you have some in case they run out, or if it's too harsh for sensitive skin. Here's our bar of choice and a travel case.
Lotion
Chlorine can be really drying, so bring your favorite lotion to rejuvenate you skin after your shower. Our family uses SheaMoisture.
Water Bottle
Swimming can be a high-energy sport. Bringing a water bottle helps keep your little one hydrated. Funtainers are high-quality, don't leak, and last a long time.
Snacks
Consider bringing your little one's favorite snacks. We loved crackers, clementines, and food pouches for when our kids were babies.
Swim cap
Swim caps are not required, and isn't something we used. But I totally understand wanting to preserve a hairstyle. There are swim caps specifically designed to fit beads, braids, bantu knots, and other natural hairstyles. While we can't vouch for them ourselves, Happy Mane is a kid-friendly brand with mixed reviews online.
Underwater Camera
There are water-proof cases for phones, but they may not be the best option if you fear water damage. We bought a low-cost water camera like this one, and are so happy we captured underwater moments with our kids.
Goggles
Curious swimmers love opening their eyes under water. These goggles have a fabric strap so that they aren't hard to put on and don't get tangled in hair.
Change of Clothes
If you plan to spend some time at the playground after swimming, or another activity, you may want to pack a change of clothes. Pajamas are a great idea if you choose an evening swim time, that way your little one can be dressed for bed when they get home.
