The large majority of the lessons we teach are private lessons. These lessons are typically the best way for a child to advance from one skill level to another as he or she learns the basics of the survival swimming technique. Typically we do not advise students to move on to a group class setting until they can swim independently across the deep end of the pool with confidence.

Private lessons are sold in 15 minute increments. For most of our younger students (under the age of 4) a 15 minute lesson is the optimal amount of time for a lesson. A 15 minute lesson for a young child is equivalent to a 30 minute workout in the pool for an adult at 85% effort. When young children attempt to enroll in lessons longer than 15 minutes, we have found that their ability to learn actually decreases due to exhaustion.

The private lesson offers the opportunity for the instructor to work with each child at the child's pace. The student will master the swimming skills one at a time. They will first become comfortable going under the water. Next they will learn how to float without assistance. Once they can float alone they will combine swimming under water and then rolling on their back to float for safety. A child's physical adeptness, age and personality will affect the time it takes for them to master these skills. Most students in private lessons will learn the basic skills of submersion and floating in 8 –12 lessons.

Many of our students become attached to their teachers and respond well to their personalities. SwimKids will always try to accommodate student's needs; however, we have learned that children who swim with more than one teacher actually show more independence and increased confidence in his or her water safety skills.

Semi-Private Lesson

Semi-Private lessons are 15 minutes in length. They are very similar to private lessons, except that there are two children sharing the 15 minute time frame. This type of lesson is only available to those who request that two children be able to share one spot on the schedule. For this type of lesson, at least one parent is required to get in the water with the two children and the instructor. The parent and instructor will then alternate teaching the children.

We do not typically encourage this type of lesson, but offer it as a convenience for parents with special circumstances. Typically parents with twins or friends of the same age and skill level will be most inclined to choose this type of lesson. This allows the children or friends to swim together in the water while still enjoying a somewhat private lesson setting.

**The make up rules for a semi private parent tot class are the same as for a private 15 minute lesson. Please see make up rules under the questions and answers section.

Pre-Comp Swim Team

This class is held nightly as interest dictates. The students work on the four basic stokes and skills, including backstroke, side breathing, breast stroke, butterfly and strong endurance. Students will learn how swim meets are done, they will also have an opportunity to participate in a competition with other SwimKid's students. These swim meets will be held quarterly on Friday afternoons. You must sign up in advance. In order to join pre comp you must have an assessment lesson to determine the student's ability to perform in the class.

Parent-Tot

Our Parent-Tot classes are designed for infants and children up to age 22 months. This class provides a more relaxed form of entry into the SwimKids program. The classes move at a slower pace than the private lessons, and provide an element of fun throughout the lesson.

When enrolled in this class, the parent gets into the water with his or her child, and follows the instructor of the group. There are usually between four and six other parents and their children enrolled in the class. The teacher will lead the parents in group activities with their children. Each child will also have some individual time with the teacher where they will work on floating and submersion.

There must be one adult for every child who attends the Parent-Tot class. Classes are 25 minutes in length. If there is not currently a Parent-Tot class that meets your availability we can often create a new class. This class could be with you and your friends!

Group Lesson

We offer small group classes to students who can successfully swim across the deep end of the pool without assistance. Group classes are for students who are ready for stroke work. These classes run 30 minutes, 1 time per week, with 2-4 students. Typically we require all of our new, incoming students to take a set of 8 private lessons before enrolling in a group class. This enables us to accurately assess the skill level of the child, and recommend what group the child should join. On occasion, we will admit a advanced student into a group class without requiring the private lessons first. However, we strongly encourage you to follow the established pattern of private lessons before enrolling in a group class.

Snorkel Class

Snorkeling classes run for 25 minutes, and are typically group classes of 3-4 students. Students can also learn to snorkel in a private lesson setting. The snorkeling classes are for the upper skill level divisions, typically a skill level 6 or above. Students work on basic, and advanced snorkeling techniques, such as diving with their snorkel and clearing their snorkel, etc. We can order small snorkeling equipment for your child or for those who need smaller sizes. We recommend that even advanced new students take a set of 10 private lessons before enrolling in a diving or snorkeling class. Snorkeling classes are offered based on demand.

Diving Class

Diving classes run for 25 minutes, and are typically group classes of 3-6 students. One instructor leads the class and works on the specifics of diving technique. Diving classes are only offered to the upper skill level divisions. The student must be able to successfully swim to the edge of the pool after diving.

We recommend that even advanced new students take a set of 10 private lessons before enrolling in a diving or snorkeling class. Our diving classes are offered based on demand. If you have a student that you would like to enroll in a snorkeling class, please feel free to fill out a Diving Class Request Form.