DQ- There are stroke and turn judges that follow the swimmers alongside the pool making sure they follow the rules. They can be disqualified for a variety of things- touching the bottom or sides of the pool, adjusting their goggles during a race, doing a different stroke then they’re supposed to be doing, or going too early in a relay. You can get a complete list from your coach, or if your child is disqualified they can tell you why.
Heat Sheet– When you go to an invitational, you can usually buy a heat sheet for a couple of dollars. This is a listing of all of the events, who is swimming and their seed time. It’s not necessary to purchase them but they can be nice to have to keep track of what your child is swimming, and see what their current record time is.
2-3 Towels – When one gets soggy your swimmer will want another one! Another great idea is a robe to wrap up in after events!
Snacks and/or concession stand money- Your swimmer will get HUNGRY, and most likely so will you. Take “real food” like sandwiches or salads, and a variety of snacks. Lots of drinks too!!
Seating- A folding chair or blanket is a good idea and you might consider bringing a shelter or umbrella to give yourself some shade!
Entertainment- There can be a lot of downtime between events so you should bring something along to keep entertained. Books, tablets, magazines, coloring books… whatever your favorite boredom buster is!
A Sharpie– As crazy as it sounds this is a must have. When your child is told their events they can use it to write them on their hand so they can remember what they’re swimming. You obviously don’t want it to wash off so it has to be permanent. Black works best, the colored ones seem to come off easier.