6 Reasons to Sign Up for YMCA Swim Lessons This Fall: Why There’s No Off-Season for Water Safety

Come fall, swim lessons might not be top of mind for parents. But according to the YMCA of Greater Birmingham, fall and winter are the perfect time to prioritize swim lessons. Here’s 6 reasons why there is never an “off-season” for swim lessons at the YMCA:

Accidents happen all year long: The world is more than 70% water and kids are 100% curious. While warmer weather presents a higher likelihood of kids being near pools, lakes and oceans, water emergencies still occur in colder months. Swim lessons are an invaluable resource in teaching young swimmers to respect the water, and what to do should they fall in or find themselves in a water emergency.

Confidence: The YMCA teaches lessons to swimmers of all ages and abilities. Lessons are taught by Red Cross certified instructors who meet their participants where they are. It’s not uncommon to see children unwilling to get their heads wet, progress into confident swimmers at the YMCA. Every child has a different comfort levels and strengths, and the Y has various lessons to fit those unique needs!

Planning ahead: For many families, swim lessons are top of mind in the spring and summer, but are less of a priority in colder months. But YMCA swim experts advise that the colder season is a great time to learn to swim or brush up on skills. It’s better to be prepared for winter vacations to warmer locations, and enter the summer months well-practiced. While spring and summer lessons are likely to fill quickly, families have more options in the colder months when the demand isn’t so high.

Health benefits: Swimming is great exercise for kids, teens and adults of all ages. It boosts cardiovascular health, muscle strength and creates a healthy outlet for stress. At the Y, members can swim year around, enjoying indoor or heated covered pools at all 7 area locations (Alabaster, Greystone, Hoover, Mountain Brook, Pelham, Shades Valley – Homewood, and Trussville)!

Brighter Futures: The YMCA aligns with YMCA of the USA’s Aquatic Pathways curriculum, a robust lineup of offerings that encourages a love for the water long after initial swim lessons. For example, those craving competition can progress to swim team for kids and Masters Swim for adults. The Y also offers specialized programs for young teens considering a job as a lifeguard. Speaking of young teens … 7th graders can join the Y for absolutely free! And when the time comes, the Y trains and certifies lifeguards at no cost. Other offerings include homeschool swim, endurance training, Polar Bear Club and swim camp!

Like all YMCA programs (membership, sports, afterschool, camp, etc) the Y offers financial assistance for swim lessons. If you’re on a tight budget, apply via the Y’s simple and confidential online financial assistance form. All levels of need are considered! And if you’re not a member, you’re missing out! YMCA members enjoy deeply discounted swim lessons (paying 50% less than the general public.) Similar discounts apply to other programs such as Summer Day Camp, Youth Sports, Afterschool Care, and most youth/teen classes!

Find the lesson level and class that is right for you kids, all year long! https://www.ymcabham.org/swim/