Is a life vest or float suit better for toddlers?

Answer 1

I'm a lifeguard and I've seen both being used and float suits are generally better. A float suit offers greater mobility in terms of not being so restrictive around the arms whereas a life vest makes it harder for a child to rotate their shoulders. Life vests are also dangerous because if a child ends up face down in the water, the vest will make them float but they may not be strong enough to use their arms to correct their position. But remember, a flotation device is never, ever an excuse to not watch your child when they are in the pool.