Madison Area YMCA Swim Lesson FAQs
If you are new to the Madison Area YMCA 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.
Q: What should my swimmer wear?
A: Swimmers should wear a bathing suit, a one-piece garment 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.
Q: Who evaluates the swimmers to determine their appropriate swim level?
A: During the first week of classes students will be evaluated to make sure they are properly placed. This means they will be asked to perform skills that are prerequisites for their class level. If your child is too advanced or not skilled enough for their class level, they will be assigned to another class level. The Aquatic Director or Deck Coordinator will approach you to discuss the re-assignment so you understand why. If you believe your child has been improperly placed, please speak to the Aquatic Director or Deck Coordinator on deck as soon as possible. Please be patient with this process as we are assessing all children on the first day.
Around Week 8 of the session, the Deck Coordinator will give you a sheet of paper which indicates whether your child should advance to the next level or stay in their present level so you can register them for the next swim lesson session in a timely fashion. The YMCA runs its swim lesson program year-round to insure continuity and your child’s progression.
Q: Where is the best place to observe the swim lesson?
A: Please enjoy sitting on our bleachers or standing in the hallway behind the glass wall. Please utilize the wet hallway when bringing your swimmer to and from their swim lesson 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. Deck Coordinators and/or Swim Instructors cannot bring any swimmer to the restroom. It is recommended that your swimmer use the restroom before class begins.
Q: Who do I speak with if I have a question about my child’s progress?
A: 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 Coordinator. We ask that parents/caregivers refrain from speaking with swim instructors before, during or after the lesson as it disrupts the class. Deck Coordinators will address the swim instructors with any concerns when their shift has ended.
Q: How can I help my swimmer to improve?
A: 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. Full Members can come during Open Swim sessions weekly to swim with your swimmer. Pool schedules are available at the Welcome Center.
Q: What if a class is canceled by the Aquatic Department?
A: If the Aquatic Department closes the pool, classes will be canceled and no makeups will be offered. Unfortunately we cannot offer makeup classes for canceled or missed classes due to back to back sessions scheduled. Refunds can be given if your child misses a class due to a medical reason and provides a written note from your health care provider.
Q: What if I need to withdraw from a class?
A: We understand that situations can change. Withdrawing from classes can be done without penalty before the third class of the session. After the third class a credit will be issued for the classes remaining in the session with a $15 processing fee.
Q: What do I do if a class is full when I try to register?
A: If you are registering for swim lessons, and the class is Full, please add yourself (or child) to the Waitlist so that we can determine needs and make adjustments. You will be contacted by a member of the Aquatics Staff if room becomes available in the 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 do not hesitate to contact Aquatic Director, Lisa Shannon at lshannon@madisonymca.org or 973-822-9622 x2230 or Associate Aquatic Directors Tom Long at tlong@madisonymca.org or 973-822-9622 x2229 or Kathryn Marsh kmarsh@madisonymca.org or 973-822-9622 x2224.