How long will it take for my child to learn to swim?

As much as we would like there to be, there is no simple answer to this question. Every child is different and they learn at their own pace. For this reason, we keep our student to instructor ratio low. Each child in the beginner class receives personal attention and can progress based on their own abilities. Perhaps the best analogy is learning to play piano. Would you be satisfied if your child only learned to play "chopsticks"? If so, the progress will be very fast. If you want your child to remain enthusiastic and learn to play popular and then classical compositions, the learning process will take longer. We encourage you to view swimming instruction as a valuable exercise, and body conditioning process, and allow your child to progress to the advanced swimmer level.

How many swimmers will be in my child's class?

We believe that children should not be just a "number" sitting on the side of the pool with eight or ten others. Our staff will get to know your child and their personal abilities. We schedule only 4 students per instructor in the beginner class and only 5 students per instructor in the advanced class. Our swimmers spend class time in the water learning, not out of the water waiting for their turn.

What is a Progressive Back Float and why does my child need one?

The progressive back float is a learn to swim belt with removable layers. It provides initial support for children as they learn to swim, so they will not feel threatened. This is especially important in water where they can not stand. The layers are removed, one at a time, as your child develops the motor skills, muscle strength, and stamina to support themselves. The back floatation (unlike "floaties" on the arms) encourages the child to rotate forward in the proper swimming position. It is important to understand that THIS IS A SWIM AID, NOT A LIFESAVING DEVICE. USE ONLY WITH ADULT SUPERVISION. Our swim staff can recommend back float designs that are acceptable for use in class.

Why does my child need swim goggles?

Swim goggles help to speed up the learning process. They make the swimming experience more comfortable and enjoyable. Without goggles, it may require many more lessons before a child will place their face in the water. They also help to eliminate eye irritation which can be caused by chlorine and pool chemicals. It helps to build confidence and children actually take pride in having their own sporting equipment. Please consult our swim staff before purchasing goggles for your child. They must seal properly and be easy to remove, replace, and adjust. 

Should my child be in the Beginner or an Advanced class?

• A beginner is a child (or adult) who does not put their face in the water and swim forward. They may be frightened of the water, or simply have not had the opportunity to swim before. 
• A semi-advanced student will take breaths while swimming forward 10 feet or more. 
• Advanced students will swim the length of the pool and need only stroke development or refinement.

Can my 2 - 3 year old enroll in group swim lessons?

Children who are younger than 3 generally do not have the muscle development and motor skills necessary to make the expected progress in the Beginner group class.  In addition, separation from parents sometimes causes a child to feel anxious. Our Family Water Preparedness course enables parents and children to work (and play) together in the water. It's the ideal way to get them started in swimming and to prepare them for the Beginner class. 

We have vacation scheduled on one of the class dates. What can be done?

We take into consideration family activities, and your child can participate in a make-up class, at the same level, on a different day, week and time (space available basis). We will make every reasonable effort to accommodate your request, however, the make-up may be with a another instructor.

Would my child be better off in a private class?

We have very small classes with four students per instructor so that each child receives personal attention. In addition, most children benefit from seeing other children swim! If the instructor feels that your child is not making the expected progress, or has special needs, they will suggest private lessons as an alternative.

I have a 12 year old beginner who does not want to be in class with 4 year olds, what can I do?

Adult Swim classes are offered several times a week for mature students who want to learn to swim.

I am not sure if my child is ready for group class. How can I be sure before enrolling?

We offer "Try Swim" where we place the student in a group environment to see how they interact. If they will take directions, stay where they are asked to stay, and observe safety rules for themselves and others, we can accept them in group class. If they do not pay attention, cry in the group setting, or act in an unsafe manner, we will suggest the Family Water Preparedness course. We do not charge a fee for this evaluation.

My child frequently experiences "swimmer's ear".  What can I do to prevent this?

"Swimmer's Ear" is an extenal ear infection that is common in children and adults.  Nothing can put an end to fun in the water as quickly as pain in the ears.  The bacterium most commonly associated with this infection is found everywhere including soil, water, on plants, and many common surfaces. It is described as being "ubiquitous" which means "everywhere at once".  The key to preventing the infection is to understand what causes the loss of the ear's natural defense. We have gathered information and summarized it in an article on our Downloads page.