Swim lessons set a positive foundation towards a lifetime of participation and enjoyment in a variety of water sports and aquatic venues on, in, and around the water. The park district swim lessons program models guidelines by the World Aquatic Babies & Children Network. Swim lesson instructors are certified in CPR and First Aid.
*No class July 3 (evening only), July 4 (All Lessons; morning classes only: make-up classes will meet at their regularly scheduled time on July 5), July 25 evening only
Instructor to Swimmer Ratios
| Bubble Club – Tadpoles | 1:12 |
| Bubble Club – Frogs | 1:3 |
| Swim Academy Prep | 1:4 |
| Swim Academy | 1:4 |
| Private Lessons | 1:1 |
Ratios are subject to change.
Bubble Club
Using a variety of activities, games and songs, instructors will encourage participants to develop a lifelong enjoyment of the water. Learn to perform flutter kicks, entering and exiting the water and basic water safety skills. Children who are not toilet trained must wear a swim diaper.
Tadpoles – Ages 6 months-2 years
This program requires active, in-water participation of the adult and child. Class includes group and free-time activities.
Frogs – Ages 3-4
Through activities, games and practice, children will build confidence in the water and learn basic swim skills. Hopping to Make A Difference! Thanks to a special partnership with the Pauly D Foundation, an advocate of water safety and drowning prevention, the Frogs swim lesson level is free. For more details: click here
REGISTER ONLINE
Swim Academy Prep – Ages 3-5
Designed for swimmers who are comfortable submerging their heads underwater and floating with assistance. Lessons are conducted in an average water depth of three feet. Fun activities, assisted exercises and free play lead to water confidence and skill development. Swimmers often repeat Swim Academy Prep several sessions before advancing to Swim Academy.
REGISTER ONLINE
Swim Academy – Ages 5+
Ready to learn swim strokes or improve your swim technique? Swimmers will be challenged through four skill levels in a fun learning environment. Each child’s strength, coordination and endurance will impact his/her development. Skill level progression may take multiple sessions. Lessons offer survival skills, swim techniques and water fun to keep your swimmer active all summer long!
REGISTER ONLINE
Private Swim Lessons – Ages 3+
One-on-one instruction allows, individual attention for swimmers who may be shy around the water or for someone looking to improve stroke work and technique. You must give 24 hours’ notice to reschedule or cancel a lesson or you will be charged. Requests for specific instructors are accepted, but not guaranteed.
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Customized Private Swim Lessons – Ages 3+
Want to register for a swim lesson, but none of the available times work for
your schedule? Looking to focus on specific skills or want lessons tailored to
your needs? Choose your lesson day, time and format! Swimmers will receive
two hours of instruction, typically offered in four 30-minute lessons. Register
using the code for your preferred location. A swim lesson instructor will
contact you within two business days to discuss your needs, schedule lessons
and coordinate payment.
REGISTER ONLINE
Introduction to Swimming- Ages 13+
Become confident and comfortable in the water by learning basic floats,
breathing techniques and basic strokes such as freestyle and backstroke.
REGISTER ONLINE
Stroke Refinement & Endurance- Ages 13+
Continue to build your cardio strength and endurance while refining your
strokes and breathing techniques. Participants will be given moderate
workouts and drills to reinforce skill critiques and increase stamina.
REGISTER ONLINE
Swim Lessons FAQs
May I stay during my child’s swim lesson?
Absolutely, in fact staff encourages it. Chairs are available for your leisure.
• At Otter Cove Aquatic Park: on the pool deck under the shade structures or in the grass areas.
• At Swanson Pool: on the upper concession deck, in the sand play area, on the pool deck or grass area near swim lesson.
Can I, or other children not registered in the swim lesson program, go into the water during lessons?
For their safety, children not participating in swim lessons must be supervised by a parent/guardian, away from the water.
What if there is inclement weather the day of my child’s lesson?
Staff’s goal is to make up every missed lesson; make-ups will be held on Fridays for rainout or holiday make-ups. If weather causes multiple cancellations, staff cannot guarantee make-up lessons. There are no make-ups for personal scheduling conflicts resulting in a swimmer’s absence.
Can I register for the swim lesson program after the session has started?
Staff will do their best to make accommodations. However registration is not guaranteed.
What if I need to withdraw from the swim lesson program?
We wish you did not have to leave, but are able to assist.
14 days or less notice: There are no refunds for the swim lesson program unless a medical slip from a physician is provided.
What if there is inclement weather the day of my child’s lesson?
Call the Swim Lesson Hotline at 630-584-3314 for updates 15 to 30 minutes prior to your scheduled lesson. Swim program cancellations will also be posted on Facebook.
What should I bring to swim lessons?
To be ready for your lesson, be dressed in swimsuit and put your towel on a deck chair to use after class. Goggles are highly recommended; participants are encouraged to practice with them at home first. Apply sunscreen a minimum of 15 minutes prior to your lesson for it to be most effective.
What are some other tips for success?
Participants are encouraged to arrive at least five minutes early for lessons. Hair past the chin should be pulled back. Please use the restroom prior to your lesson.
How do I know what level my child should be in?
On the first day of each session, staff will perform a skills test to assess those students who do not know their swim level. Each student learns and progresses at his/her own pace. It may take several sessions/seasons to progress. If you have questions, speak with your child’s instructor before or after class. The Lesson Coordinator(s), who oversee the swim lesson daily activities, is also available for any questions and/or comments.
To view the Swim Lesson Skill Outline: click here
For information on lifeguard camps and courses: click here