SWIM LESSONS

Start your swim journey with the YMCA and gain the skills to feel confident and safe in our Lakefront community! From parent/child classes to youth and adult programs, we help swimmers of all ages build confidence, develop strong skills, and enjoy the water. Choose from group, semi-private, or private lessons—all led by certified YMCA instructors trained in swim instruction, CPR, AED, and First Aid. Use the Swim Lesson Finder below to find current classes and register.

Swim Lesson Level Guide

A child in the YMCA pool with their parent.

With a parent by their side, little ones explore, float, roll, and blow bubbles while parents learn water safety and supervision skills—making every splash fun and safe.

Parent/Child: 6 months-3 years

Young girl in pool learning to swim

Kids build water confidence and foundational swim skills through progressive lessons, learning personal water safety and essential swim basics while gaining confidence and independence in the water.

Preschool: 3-5 years

two youth in a pool learning to swim

After mastering the basics, swimmers progress through stages that sharpen stroke technique and strengthen water safety, building skills for life and a lasting love of swimming.

School Age: 6-13 years

Adult learning to swim in pool

Beginner teen and adult swimmers learn to float, breathe, and swim with confidence, while intermediate swimmers refine technique, build endurance, and advance their skills.

Teen/Adult: 14+ years

Private Swim Lessons

The Y’s private and semi-private swim lessons offer a personalized learning experience to help swimmers build skills and achieve their goals. With certified YMCA instructors, you’ll receive focused instruction in a supportive, flexible setting. Multiple package options and scheduling choices are available.

Two friends learning to swim together.

Semi-private lessons last 30 minutes and let two swimmers of similar age and ability, such as siblings or friends, learn together and save. The Y does not provide partner matching.

Semi-Private Lessons: Ages 3+

A young person learning to swim with private lessons.

Private lessons are 30 minutes of one-on-one instruction with a certified YMCA swim instructor, offering focused attention and rapid progress.

Private Lessons: Ages 3+

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about our swim program? From class levels and age requirements to safety guidelines and scheduling, our FAQ section covers everything you need to know to make the most of your lessons. Find answers, tips, and guidance to help swimmers of all ages gain confidence and enjoy the water safely.

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Swim Lesson Guidelines

We have established the following guidelines for participation in group swimming lessons at the McGaw YMCA.

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Aquatics Center Guidelines

We have established the following guidelines for pool use and participation in swimming programs and activities.

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