How to Find a Learn-to-Swim Program for Your Child
Searching for a learn-to-swim program for your child, but don’t know where to start? Look no further! The first step is to check here for swimming pools in your area (YMCA, aquatics clubs, Boys and Girls Clubs, and more).
Once you’ve gathered a short list of pools in your area, give them a quick call or check the website to learn about available swim lessons offered by certified instructors. Different pools provide different types of programs and it is important to be informed about what you need. Look at all your options and choose what is best for you, whether you are searching for a mommy-and-me class for your infant or toddler, or looking to sign your little one up for swim lessons before joining your community’s summer swim team.
Still unsure of where to send your child? Ask local facilities if you can observe a swim lesson in action. Seeing instructors’ behavior and skill as well as how participants enjoy the class first-hand can help make this decision easier.
Another great way to find learn-to-swim programs near you is to ask trusted friends, neighbors, and family members in your area for a recommendation. They are likely to share their own experiences—good and bad—about local swim programs, which may give you insight and peace of mind about the swim class that is best for your child.
Here are other things to keep in mind when signing up for learn-to-swim programs:
- Assess whether the swim lessons will align with you and your child's schedule.
- Choose an age-appropriate class. Putting young children in class with older ones can make your child nervous (no matter their skill level). If they are with their own age group, they will be more confident and more likely to success.
- Practice water safety on days your child does not have swim lessons. This will help them retain what they've learned and prevent accidents from happening in the future.
As long as your child's swimming lesson is taught by a certified instructor, they are in good hands learning how to be safe, having fun, and getting the most out of their time in the water.
