Faq

Frequently Asked Questions

About Swim Lessons :

Why are swim lessons important?

Swim lessons are a vital layer of protection against drowning, significantly reducing risk. They shouldbe a top priority for families, as swimming is the only sport that can save a life. However, no child is ever “drown-proof,” even with lessons, and proper supervision is always essential.

What should I know about drowning?

Drowning is quick, silent, and often occurs within seconds. It is the leading cause of accidental death for children aged 1-4 and the second leading cause for those under 14. Most drownings are preventable through swim education, active supervision, and safety precautions.

What is active supervision?

Always designate a “Water Watcher” to monitor children in or near water without distractions. Rotate this responsibility every 30 minutes. Never leave children unattended around pools, spas, bathtubs, or any body of water.

Why avoid Puddle Jumpers?

Puddle Jumpers promote poor swimming habits, such as swimming vertically, with the face out of the water, and using ineffective kicks. This conflicts with proper swimming skills and hinders progress.

What flotation devices are recommended?

We suggest life vests with removable float inserts, allowing children to practice proper swimming form safely while building confidence.

Why Choose Swim Baby Swim:

What sets Swim Baby Swim apart?

Private, one-on-one lessons tailored to each child’s unique needs and learning style. Skilled instructors with extensive experience teaching children of all ages and abilities. Custom lesson plans maximize learning potential, safety, and skill mastery. A strong focus on building essential swimming skills, water competency, and confidence.

Will my child learn to swim?

Yes, children 16 months and older will learn to swim short distances with proper breath control. Skills improve over time with additional swim sessions and stroke techniques will be incorporated once the basics of essential skills are mastered.

Does every child progress at the same rate?

Progress varies depending on consistency, age, and adherence to our guidance, but every child can learn to swim with patience and practice.

Will my child need more lessons after completing the program?

Swim lessons should be viewed as an ongoing sport. It is a skill that continues to develop and improve with regular practice and instruction. While swimming is ingrained in muscle memory once learned, ongoing lessons allow the student to refine their technique, build confidence, and master new skills.

Lesson Format:

Why are lessons 15 minutes long?

Children retain 98% of new information within the first 10 minutes of learning. Short lessons also prevent fatigue and maintain focus.

Why are lessons held 4 days per week?

Consistent repetition is key to building muscle memory and ensuring faster progress.

Why are sessions 6 weeks long?

It typically takes 6 weeks to master essential swimming skills or stroke techniques. Some children may progress faster or require additional time, depending on their ability and experience.

Do parents participate in lessons?

Parents are not allowed in the pool during lessons but may join the final week to learn how to practice with their children.

Financial Policies:

Wha

No. The registration fee secures your time slot and is non-refundable and non-transferable.

When is tuition due?

Tuition must be paid in full no later than 2 weeks before the session begins.

Are refunds available for cancellations?

Tuition is refundable if canceled at least 3 days before the first session. Registration fees are non-refundable.

What if I miss a lesson?

Missed lessons are not refunded or credited. Tuition covers your reserved time slot, regardless of attendance.

Attendance Policies:

What if I’m late?

Arrive 10 minutes early to ensure your child is ready. Late arrivals will not receive additional lesson
time.

What about sickness or injury?

What happens during weather cancellations?

Lessons will proceed unless heavy rain, lightning, or emergencies occur. Canceled lessons will be rescheduled or a refund will be given.

Safety and Pool Rules:

What should my child wear?

Non-toilet-trained children: A properly fitted reusable swim diaper (tight around legs and waist).
Prohibited: Disposable swim diapers, water shoes, or loose swim shirts.
Advanced swimmers: Goggles, swim caps, and fins may be used.
Wetsuits: are recommended for students who get cold easily or when the pool temperature is in thelow 80s. Wetsuits help keep students warm and comfortable during lessons. Additionally, theysupport proper horizontal streamline positioning and aid buoyancy while floating.

Can my child eat before swim lessons?

Avoid feeding your child at least two hours before their swim lesson to prevent discomfort or fatigue.Additionally, avoid certain fruits like apples, pineapples, and peaches before lessons, as they cancause gas buildup and stomach upset.

What are safer pre-swimming snack alternatives?

Bananas (easy to digest and provide energy). Plain crackers, toast, or rice cakes.Small portions of light protein, such as a piece of chicken

Why are some foods problematic before swim lessons?

Certain foods can cause digestive issues that are worsened by the physical demands and body position in swimming. Gas Production and Bloating: Apples are high in fructose and pectin, which can ferment in the gut, causing gas. Pineapples, peaches, and papayas: Contain natural sugars that can ferment and lead to bloating. Digestive Enzyme Effects Pineapple (bromelain) and papaya (papain): Digestive enzymes that can cause unexpected stomach upset during physical
activity.Swimming-Specific Challenges: The horizontal swimming position and core engagement put pressure on the stomach, amplifying discomfort from digestive issues. Acid Reflux Risks: Acidic fruits like pineapple and passion fruit can trigger acid reflux, especially in the horizontal position.
Sugar Rush and Crash: High natural sugar content in these fruits can lead to energy spikes and crashes, affecting performance and mood.

Why are these effects more pronounced in young swimmers?

Developing digestive systems makes children more sensitive to these issues. They may struggle to recognize or communicate discomfort. Swallowing water during lessons can worsen stomach upset. For an enjoyable and comfortable swim lesson, plan snacks accordingly!

Parent Conduct:

What if my child cries?

Crying is a normal part of the adjustment process as children adapt to a new environment and learn challenging, life-saving skills. It’s simply their way of expressing emotions—not a sign of fear or pain.
Here’s how to handle it:
Stay Calm and Positive Celebrate their progress and use rewards if necessary. Avoid focusing on their tears or showing signs of worry.
Reinforce Their Success: Take a video of their lesson and show it later on mute, highlighting their skills. Hype them up, praise their efforts, and remind them how fun swimming can be.
Minimize Distractions: If your presence seems to increase their crying, step away or hide so they can focus on the instructor.
Seek Support if Needed: If the crying persists beyond the first week, consider having another family member or nanny take them to lessons.
Trust the Process: Consistent positive reinforcement helps children build confidence, and crying usually subsides over time. Ignoring the crying sends the message that it won’t result in skipping lessons, encouraging a shift in attitude. By staying patient and encouraging, your child will learn to enjoy swimming and develop essential skills with confidence!

Will crying create a fear of water?

No. Crying is a reaction to new challenges, not trauma. Confidence and skills will eliminate fears over time. Crying is a completely normal part of the learning process, especially during early swim lessons. It’s how children express emotions about a new environment, an unfamiliar instructor, or the challenge of learning new skills—not a sign of fear or trauma. Rest assured, your child will still have
their lesson, even if they cry or scream, as consistency is key to building confidence and overcoming initial protests. Think of it like a car seat: while children may resist being buckled in, we know it’s essential for their safety. Similarly, learning to swim is a vital life-saving skill, and tears usually decrease as skills and confidence grow—a pattern we see with nearly every young swimmer

How will the coach handle crying?

Our experienced coaches prioritize safety and comfort, helping children work through their emotions with patience and encouragement. With time, children become more comfortable, gain trust in their instructor, and realize swimming is fun. Remember, crying often stems from attachment, unfamiliarity, or frustration—not fear of water. As your child adjusts, their tears will subside, and their
confidence will soar!

Where Should I Sit During a Lesson?

To ensure your child stays focused, please avoid sitting directly in front of the teaching area, at the pool edge, or hovering poolside. Instead, observe from a short distance to minimize distractions. If your child is crying, sit out of their line of sight, or position yourself at a distance where they can see your big smile, thumbs up, and hear your claps and words of encouragement. During lessons, refrain from talking to your child or the instructor. The only acceptable comments are positive words like, “You got this,” “Awesome job,” “Amazing,” “Woohoo,” “You’re a mermaid,” or “You’re a fish! If your child has favorite cartoon characters, superheroes, trucks, or animals, please let us know. The coach may incorporate these into the lesson as fun distractions or relatable ways to help your child better understand and enjoy the experience.

Can I Take Photos or Videos During Lessons?

You are welcome to record or take photos of your child’s lesson on Thursdays without prior approval. For any other day, please ask for permission, as your coach will likely allow it. Sharing videos with the coach is encouraged, as it can help them prepare a customized lesson plan for the following day

What Should I Do Before and After My Child’s Swim Lesson?

Arrive no more than 10 minutes early and keep your child away from the pool steps or edge to minimize distractions. After the lesson, wait by the pool steps with a towel to assist your child out of the water, then move aside for the next student to enter. If the student before your child is doing well, feel free to watch and cheer them on. This can help motivate your child and build excitement for their
lesson.

Should I Practice Swimming Skills with My Child Outside of Lessons?

No, practicing swimming skills outside of lessons is not recommended until your child has completed their swim course. While the intention is to help, incorrect practice can reinforce bad habits, slow progress, and interfere with skill development. Repeating incorrect movements becomes muscle memory, making it harder to learn the correct technique later.
We have a strict policy in place: No practice of swimming skills outside of lessons. No attempts to teach swimming techniques. No modification of skills being taught. No use of flotation devices Think of it like learning a musical instrument: practicing the wrong notes only makes it harder to play the right ones. Let us build the proper foundation first. Once your child completes their course, we’ll provide guidance on appropriate practice activities. Your child’s safety and proper skill development are our top priorities.

How do I contact you with questions or concerns?

To avoid disrupting lessons, please refrain from speaking with the instructor before or after class. Instead, reach out to us via email at Hello@swimbabyswim.com or call/text 760-308-1600.

What will happen if I don’t follow the policies and rules?

Repeated violations of the policies may result in the termination of lessons without a refund. Policies are subject to change at the instructor’s discretion, and any updates will be communicated via email.