If you are new to the Fanwood-Scotch Plains YMCA’s Swimming Lesson Program, below are answers to common questions as well as basic guidelines to ensure your child has a successful experience in our program.
The swim lesson classes offered at our Y are designed to give your child a positive learning experience while teaching lifelong swimming and water safety skills in a fun, supportive and safe environment. We incorporate the values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility in every class.
When can I register for Swim Lessons?
Registration for each swim lesson session is typically 2 weeks before the session start. We hold 6-10 week sessions throughout the year. Our Membership Guide lists the upcoming registration and session dates. We will also announce upcoming dates on our website, social media pages, and in each session brochure. You can also call our Welcome Center at 908-889-8880 for more information about swim lesson registration.
What should my swimmer wear?
Swimmers should wear a bathing suit designed specifically for swimming. Swimmers who are not toilet-trained should wear a swim diaper as well as a bathing suit. If swimmers have long hair it should be tied back so it will not get in their face during their swim class. We strongly suggest that bathing caps be worn for swimmers whose hair is past their chin. Swim goggles are highly recommended.
Who evaluates the swimmers to determine their appropriate swim level?
The lesson day and time remains the same throughout the program session. Please note that sessions vary in length. Children progress through swim lessons until they have successfully achieved the benchmarks of the program or meet their personal goals. The YMCA runs its swim lesson program year-round to insure continuity and your child’s progression.
Where is the best place to observe the swim lesson?
Swimmers under the age of 8 must have adult supervision on the pool deck. Swimmers between the ages of 8-12 must have adult supervision within the building. Deck Supervisors and/or Swim Instructors cannot bring any swimmer to the restroom. It is recommended that your swimmer use the restroom before class begins. Please enjoy sitting on our bleachers or standing in the hallway behind the glass wall. Please utilize this hallway when bringing your swimmer to and from their swim lane and avoid walking in front of the lifeguard stand as it obstructs the view for the lifeguard. We ask that parents/caregivers avoid creating distractions and avoid getting involved in the swim class. For the safety and privacy of all participants, photos and videos are not permitted.
Who do I speak with if I have a question about my child’s progress?
No two children develop at the same rate. Each child learns at a different pace depending on factors such as physical growth, individual development, comfort, practice and previous experience. It is important to note that swimming is not a Pass/Fail program. It is not unusual for a child to be in the same level for more than one session. All questions regarding your swimmer’s progress should be directed to the Deck Supervisor. We ask that parents/caregivers refrain from speaking with swim instructors before, during or after the lesson as it disrupts the class. Deck Supervisors will address the swim instructors with any concerns when their shift has ended.
How can I help my swimmer to improve?
Swimming involves a lot of moving parts. Practice, practice, practice in a fun, safe way. Talk about what your swimmer learned during their swim lesson. If you have an active Family membership you can come during Open Swim and Family Swim sessions to swim with your swimmer. Pool schedules are available online and at the FSPY Welcome Center. Structured and unstructured play in the water encourages water discovery and leads to relaxed, confident swimmers who will progress more quickly through their formal lessons. One half hour a week with us isn’t nearly enough time!
What if a class is canceled by the Aquatic Department?
If the Aquatic Department closes the pool due to lightning, we will try to offer makeup swim lessons. Due to limited available pool space, makeup classes may not be an option. We will only assign a makeup class date for classes canceled by the Aquatic Department. The Aquatic Department will communicate details to participants before the next scheduled class.
The Aquatic Staff is committed to ensuring the success of your child’s swim instruction experience. If you have any questions, comments or concerns please reach out to the Aquatics Department at aquatics@fspymca.org.