How long does it take to learn rotary (or side) breathing?
Everyone learns at different rates. We emphasize side breathing in all levels, as this is the most efficient way to swim. With practice, the swimmer will become more comfortable and familiar with the concept and eventually learn the technique.

Why can’t we watch classes from pool deck?
In order to improve learning, we want to minimize distractions. Ultimately, you will see that this is best for students.

Do swimmers need one piece suits and caps?
One piece suits for girls and shorts with minimal drag for boys are required. Please also avoid suits with sleeves or wet suits. Our goal is to teach swimming and we do not want the garments to impede the movement or progress. Girls or boys with long hair should wear caps. While this is not required, hair can get in the way and without proper vision, a swimmer may be distracted. All long hair MUST be tied back if a cap is not worn. For comfortable caps, please purchase a lycra or silicone cap.

Do swimmers need goggles?
While we do want the swimmer to be at ease putting his/her face in the water without goggles, we have found that goggles enable swimmers to see underwater, increasing their comfort and, ultimately, their progress.

Can my child sit and watch class?
For safety reasons, we cannot allow your child to sit on the side and watch the class. If you feel that your child may be apt to do this, please wait and enroll him/her in a few months. Swimming can only be learned by actually going through the motions.

Would it be OK if my child doesn’t put his/her face in the water?
Unfortunately, we cannot teach the correct swimming technique without having the face in the water. While there are many lessons to be learned without the face in the water, at some point, your child will be asked to put his/her face in the water. The goggles do help as water will not be in the eyes.

Am I assured the same teacher if I enroll for another day or another session?
With the exception of extenuating circumstances, your child will have the same teacher for the session. If you enroll for more than one day per week, which is recommended, there is no guarantee that the teacher will be working on that particular day. Also, we cannot guarantee that the teacher will teach the same class at the same time during the next session. All of our teachers are well qualified. We do believe that instruction from more than one individual is extremely helpfu,l because students learn in different ways.

What happens if my child satisfies all the requirements in a class during a session?
At the end of every session, your child will be given a certificate with a recommendation for the next session. If all requirements are satisfied, then your child will most likely be recommended for a higher level in the next session.

How do I make up a class?
Make-ups are available only if we have space in a class. Because our program is almost at capacity, we limit make-ups to one per session. Even then, there is no guarantee that space will be available in a class and time that suits your schedule. Please call Marilyn at 617-777-3556 for make-up classes.

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