YMCA of the Fox Cities

Preschool Swim Lessons

What makes us different from other programs?
The YMCA uses programs as a vehicle to deliver its mission, which is to put Christian principles into practice through programs that build spirit, mind and body for all. YMCA Swim Lesson programs promote children’s health and safety. The programs support parents and encourage their participation in teaching their kids valuable life skills. YMCA Swim Lesson classes stress positive values and give kids the opportunity to practice them, promoting kids’ growth in self-esteem and self worth while they are having a great time.

What class to sign up for?

If your child has not participated in YMCA swim lessons before, his/her skills should be evaluated for appropriate class placement. Often times, class placement can be achieved over the phone. Other times, a child may need to be evaluated in the water.

Please call your local YMCA Aquatic Director for YMCA Swim Lesson Evaluation.

3-4 years old - classes without parent participation

Shrimp
This class is for three-and four-year-olds who have had little or no swimming instruction. “Shrimp” will introduce water acclimation and front and back float with assistance.

Kipper
“Kipper” level develops three-and four-year-olds abilities' to swim on their own. Students will demonstrate independent front and back float for 5 seconds. Also, students will learn to make forward progress by doing the paddlestroke.

Inia
Students will learn to front and back glide 20 feet. They will learn to do the front crawl 20 feet and back crawl will be introduced. Children will practice submersion skills and be introduced to the deep water.

4-6 years old - classes without parent participation

Perch
This class is for four-to six-year-olds who have had little or no swimming instruction. “Perch” will introduce water acclimation and front and back float with assistance. Students will also learn to put their faces in the water and blow bubbles.

Pike
“Pike” level develops swimmers' abilities to swim on their own. Students will demonstrate independent front and back float for 5 seconds. Also, students will learn to make forward progress by doing the paddlestroke.

Eel
Students will learn to front and back glide 20 feet. They will learn to do the front crawl 20 feet and back crawl will be introduced. Children will learn submersion skills and deep water skills.

Ray
Students in this level will demonstrate front crawl with rhythmic breathing 25 yards. Students will also

Starfish
This level is especially designed for the advanced preschool swimmer. Refinement of front and back is learned. Students will swim front and back crawl a minimum of 25 yards. Also, swimmers will be introduced to elementary back stroke.

Aquatic Staff Information
Appleton • Kathryn Herzog
920.954.7640
Fox West • Paul Bady
920.757.9820 Ext. 312
Heart of the Valley • Belinda Price-Dajany
920.830.5707
Neenah-Menasha • Kelli Briski
920.886.2132
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