For more than a century, the Y has been the go-to swim instructor for families across America. In today's day and age, research has revealed that if a child hasn't learned to swim by third grade, it's unlikely they ever will. Participating in formal swimming lessons is an effective way to decrease the chances of a child drowning. Knowing how to be safe around water is an absolute must for all families.
At the Y, we believe swimming is an essential life skill. Our swim lessons give kids of all ages the tools they need to stay safe and have fun in the water. Through our program, children not only gain the skills to be strong swimmers but also build their self-confidence.
It's our top priority to ensure that every child has the opportunity to learn this critical life skill. We strive to provide a safe and supportive environment, so kids can gain the knowledge and skills they need to confidently navigate the waters.
We offer swim lessons for every age and stage. Y Swim Lesson curriculum is based on a continuum that focuses on a skill-based progression that builds confidence and supports swimming skills. There are three phases within the continuum, beginning with Swim Starters, then Swim Basics and Swim Strokes. Each phase is broken into specific stages that are designed specifically for that age group on a cognitive and social ability.
Program enhancements include: ease at time of registration, improved curriculum focusing on skills-based instruction with an emphasis on personal safety, tools and resources to support families at home.
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RECREATIONAL AQUATIC PATHWAY PROGRAMS
All of the intentional steps taken to curate our aquatics programming are done with you in mind. With the combination of programs, we have had in the past, we are excited to announce the programs we are rolling out in 2022. We have the intention of engaging our aquatics community with opportunities tailored to our members interests and needs. These opportunities include leadership roles, recreational sports and games, aquatic conditioning, and diving skills. These new programs are the next step after swim lessons in the Aquatic Pathway to give young swimmers a lifetime of a healthy, respectful, safe, loving and most importantly fun relationships with water.
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INTRO TO KAYAKING
This fun, six-week class for ages 13+ provides the skills and knowledge to enable you to safely paddle on moving water. It covers basic strokes, braces, rolls and other boat-handling skills along with river reading and rescue techniques. Upon successful completion of this course, participants are qualified to join the Chicago Whitewater Association on its beginner river trips in the Spring. All equipment for this class is provided, though you can bring your own boat as long as is is less than 10 feet long.