These swimmers review previous skills and work to develop endurance in swimming, floating and treading water. Swimmers also learn rescue skills and personal safety. Class also includes a discussion of YMCA values and an introduction to team water sports.

Pre-requisites: Pass Ray/Trout or ability to perform these skills

• Front and back alternating paddle 10 yards
• Front and back symmetrical paddle 10 yards
• Tread water 15 seconds
• Front and back glides
• Jump into deep water and recover to wall

Compare to:

• American Red Cross - Preschool Level 3
• Foss - Little 4*

A Typical Class

Children work on basic aquatic skills such as enter & exit the water, blow bubbles through mouth and nose, go under water, bobbing, front and back glides, retrieve submerged objects and water safety. 

Class Length: 40 minutes

Outcomes/Benefits

• Increased safety and rescue skills
• Increased swimming skills
• Readiness for next swim instruction level: Minnow

Tips & Preparation

• Arrive early; allow at least 10 minutes prior to class start times for your child to change into swimming attire and to stow away items in the locker room.
• Make sure that your child uses the restroom and showers with soap before entering the pool.
• Parents of children age 6 and younger must remain in the pool area at all times, including during lessons.
• The pool may be available to Y Members before or after lessons for Open swimming. 
• Kids who have not passed our swim test must be accompanied in the water by an adult in order to participate in Open Swim.
• Our pools are heated, but kids who chill easily may benefit from a swim shirt or ear bands.

Attire and What to Bring

• Come to class dressed and ready for the pool.
• Clothes, street shoes, diaper bags and other personal items can be stored in the locker rooms; bring your own lock and leave your valuables at home.
• Family appropriate, clean swimsuit and swim attire is required.
• Sandals or flip-flops are permitted in the pool area; No street shoes permitted.
• Towel, goggles if desired.  Masks and snorkels are not allowed.