YMCA Swim Lesson Program Purpose:
Fundamentals of Teaching YMCA Swim Lessons/YMCA of the USA

The general purpose of the YMCA Swim lesson program is to enhance SAFETY, ENJOYMENT, and FUN.  The program focuses on 5 components:

    1. Personal Safety - Through planned safety lessons and general safety review during each class, the safety  componentprovides a foundation for the Y Swim Lesson Program.

    2. Personal Growth - Each instructor exemplifies positive value characteristics.  The core values of all YMCA programs are at the heart of Y Swim Lessons:  Caring, Respect, Honesty and Responsibility; are incorporated into every lesson and teachable moment. 

    3. Stroke Development - Specific skill development for each of the swimming strokes including front crawl, back crawl, breast and elementary back stroke, side stroke and butterfly stroke. 

    4. Water Sports and Games - Through synchronized swimming skills, water polo/wet-ball, and other creative games, YSL focuses on endurance, fitness, cooperation and fun

    5. Rescue/Water Safety Skills - Age-appropriate safety units are presented at each level from infant through adult.  Reaching assists through demonstrations of rescue breathing are shared with students.