Minnow swimmers work to refine crawl strokes, and develop lead-up skills in preparation for learning new strokes. Students also learn how to care for breathing emergencies and have opportunities to set goals and work towards achieving them.

Prerequisites: Pass Starfish/Guppy or ability to perform these skills:

• Front and back float 30 seconds
• Front and back alternating paddle 25 yards
• Front and back symmetrical paddle 25 yards
• Tread water 30 seconds
• Perform 10 underwater bobs

Compare to:

• American Red Cross - Level 3
• Foss - Big 2*

A Typical Class

Swimmers work on gliding, front and back crawl, elementary backstroke, retrieving objects, treading water, jumping into deep water, kneeling dive and compact dive. 

Class Length: 40 minutes

Outcomes/Benefits

• Increased emergency and rescue skills
• Increased swimming skills
• Readiness for next swim instruction level: Fish

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.