If I choose to be on your waiting list, do I really have a chance of getting in?
YES! Keep in mind that we never know when we will get cancellations or for what class, but when we do we will contact the individuals on the wait list.
Last summer we were able to accommodate most of the children on our wait list. Just be patient and remember that whether you get into a class in June or August, this is a life-saving skill that will stick with them forever. So, WHEN they start their lessons is not as important when you look at the big picture!
Also, since we always enroll returning students first, keep in mind that even if you get a spot in August you will be able to enroll for our winter maintenance program this fall and you will be able to enroll first for next season and get the early summer classes.
However, if you choose to wait for next year because you didn’t get a class “before your vacation” this year, chances are you will wind up on the waiting list again.
When can I sign up for next summer?
We will begin accepting enrollment for returning families beginning on 1-6-14.
Will my child be traumatized if he/she cries the whole time or just doesn’t seem to like it?
Absolutely Not!
A little crying (or even a lot) will not hurt your child. If you are truly worried about your child being “traumatized” this is probably not the program for you. Much of the time you have to break through the tears to see real progress.
What do I say to my child when he tells me he doesn’t want to come back?
Be prepared, unless you have a little baby, your child will probably protest!
This is completely normal.
As a parent, your best response is “I love you and would never want anything to happen to you, and that is why you are going back to swim lessons. End of conversation.
Do not allow your child to tell you what is best for his or her well-being.
Why do the babies go off the diving board?
This is not just for cute pictures!! We need your child to learn what it feels like to fall into the water, go under, and then feel the water pushing them back up, which it will do! This will help prevent panic if they ever do fall in. It will not seem like a new experience, therefore prolonging the time you have to get to them before possible drowning.
What is the best age to start swimming lessons?
As young as possible, but we accept children of all ages.
Why must parents stay out of sight?
It is extremely important that the parents stay where the children cannot see them. Children are not able to concentrate on the instructors or what is going on in the class if they reaching out to mom and dad. Once the instructors get the class under control all it takes is one parent walking in to disrupt the whole class. Much like dominoes, one crying child will produce 10 crying children.
If you see some parents sitting by the pool, you will know that they have been invited in by the instructors. Once your child gets to a level where your presence will not interfere with their progress the instructors will let you know.
Why do you not want parents to come over with a towel to wipe their child’s nose or eyes while in class?
For the same reason that parents must stay out of sight; A mom coming over to wipe her child’s nose is distracting. The instructors will let you know if they need you for something.
Will it be detrimental to be consistently late for class?
Yes, try to make arrangements to be there on time. We do not offer make-up classes.
Why use a pacifier?
If your child is dependent on a pacifier it is a good idea to allow him/her to have it while in swim class, especially if this is a means of calming your child.
Why should my child wear a swim diaper PLUS plastic pants?
Over the years we have tried many different things. This is the only solution that we have found truly works. Without being too graphic, this is the only means of “holding everything in.” On several occasions the last few years we were forced to shut down the pool and cancel classes due to accidents. Please trust us on this!
After 5 days and my child is still crying and pitching a fit at home, then all the way to swim lessons, and I feel “this is not working”, shouldn’t I just quit?
Honestly, some people do. As we have mentioned, this is a “tough love” atmosphere, it is not for everybody.
Sometimes children will do everything in their power to get out of coming to swim class. They will push all the right buttons to wear parents down with hopes of not being brought back. It is the parents who are determined that their children learn to swim that survive. You have to make sure that you are the BOSS!
Ask any member of the staff and you will hear stories of parents who brought their children, kicking and screaming, repeatedly for weeks, and then years. Those children eventually turn around and become beautiful swimmers. It is the parents who decide to give up, not the children.
You need to make sure your children know you are serious and that you trust the teachers completely. They will resist all the more if they sense you are uneasy. Keep in mind that all children do not cry and resist. Some children come to class very excited, even the ones who cried the year or the week before.
In the end, please remember that we are extremely passionate about our job! We truly love what we do and we adore every child that is brought to us. Every lesson, though tough, is carried on with plenty of hugs and kisses and lots of positive reinforcement!! We want your children to be safe and able to survive in the water at all times!