By Kelsey Pinault
In many parts of the country, summer is the season for beginning swimmers to make their first splash in the pool. Not so in Florida, where our pool-perfect weather means novice swimmers can take to the water virtually any time of the year.
Whether your child is intent on becoming the next Michael Phelps or simply trying to tread water, learning to swim is vital to living in the Sunshine State. Locally, there are several public pools that teach beginning and competitive swimming, based on your needs and budget.
Here are but a few of the options available in Boca:
Private lessons: Although these prices generally run the highest (typically $20 to $40 for a 30-minute lesson depending on the instructor), beginners often see the fastest improvement with one-on-one lessons. Check with your local pool or water park for someone who is certified in water safety instruction (or lifeguard-certified). Because the attention is on a single student, instructors can adjust to a child’s specific needs in order to improve technique. For those with backyard pools: Some instructors will make house calls if traveling to a lesson is an inconvenience.
Group lessons: Group classes generally have anywhere from two to six children per instructor and run from 30 minutes to an hour depending on the location. Although these lessons are beneficial, there may be a greater learning curve due to the lack of one-on-one attention. This type of lesson is ideal for beginning swimmers, parents seeking a summer activity for their child or families on a budget.
Swim teams: Those with knowledge and basic skill in all strokes may want to consider competitive swimming. These teams are not to be taken lightly. Tryouts are required and those that make the team can expect a time commitment of at least a few days a week to prepare for competitions.
Special needs lessons: Find an instructor who is certified in special-needs training as well as general water safety to ensure a secure atmosphere for your child. Start by contacting your local public pool. These one-on-one lessons should be conducted at a home pool or at a public pool with minimal distractions for best results. Be patient – it may take longer for the child to learn, but the lessons can be a wonderful experience for children with special needs.
SWIM LESSONS/TEAMS IN BOCA
Peter Blum Family YMCA of Boca Raton
Where: 6631 Palmetto Circle South
Contact: 800/798-4531
Lessons/teams: Seven levels of water safety and basic swim skills; competitive swim team for ages 5 to 18
Coconut Cove Water Park
Where: 11200 Park Access Road, inside South County Regional Park in Boca
Contact: 561/724-1140
Lessons/teams: Summer lessons only (eight-day sessions, $50; ages 3 and up)
Quality Swimming
Where: 10085 Yamato Road
Contact: 561/487-8276
Lessons/teams: Lessons for infants, children and adults; teams that introduce children, starting at age 5, to competitive swimming; instruction for special-needs children is available
