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As the Olympic games were nearing I thought how fun would it be to have our children participate in not only a swim lesson program but water safety program. British Swim School was able to provide both elements. Having three children ages 8, 6, and 2 can be tricky when trying to enroll in organized activities so I absolutely loved not only the variety of levels but the time options that allowed all three children to participate!
British Swim School’s main goal is teaching water safety so I didn’t hesitate in enrolling three very brave, no fear children. (especially my 2 year old who believes he can fly!) Along with stroke development the classes teach how to fall into water and then turning and floating onto your back. It was impressive watching children younger than my 2-year-old already master this skill!
Programs
Prior to our first lesson we had a detailed conversation with the coordinator discussing each of my children’s swim abilities. It was a nice collaborative effort in making sure we placed each child in the appropriate level. However, what was even more impressive was at our very first lesson the instructors took time to reassessed my children in the water to make sure they were in the appropriate program. This was huge for us since my two oldest children are often apprehensive about meeting expectations.
Dylan – 8 yrs. Turtle Two Level: Instruction at this level focused on the correct arm, leg and breathing coordination for three strokes: Freestyle, Breaststroke and Backstroke. It was encouraging to see my sons growth after only four sessions. Instructor/student ratio never exceeds 6:1 allowing for him to advance quickly.
Madison – 6 yrs. Minnow Level: In the Intro Skills (4 Children Max) Madison participated in this small group focusing on safety and independence in the water. It was fun to watch Madison having so much FUN while learning basic water survival techniques.
Jordan – 2 yrs. Tadpole Level: In the starting program it was interesting to watch how these toddlers were introduced to the water for the first time. Since the instructor and I were able to work together in the water it helped to greatly reduce any fears while transitioning between different activities. While he wasn’t able to master all of the skills it was good to see him become much more comfortable in the water.
British Swim School offers ten different programs ranging from children as young as 3 months (tadpole) all the way up to personalized adult classes and a swim team level focusing on building distance, stamina and speed. Swim lessons are 30 minutes long and are offered weekly. Private and semi-private classes available upon request.
As a PMB reader British Swim School is offering to waive the registration fee ($36 value) to anyone interested in participating. To take advantage of this special offer be sure to mention Pittsburgh Moms Blog at registration.
Move-Up Mondays
Love this idea! British Swim School truly strives to advance their students to the next swim level. Their concept of “Move-Up Mondays” really makes the student proud of their accomplishments and anxious to build upon their skills. Madison was so excited to receive her new color coded cap signifying that she had graduated to Turtle One Level!
Instructors*
Lets talk about the instructors, by far my most favorite part of the program! As parents we always want our children to feel safe and comfortable and I can 100% say the instructors of my children exceeded these expectations. The low student-to-teacher ratio allows for a great environment where instructors are able to connect and build strong relationships with their students. Their communication with the students was exceptional and above all their patience with the younger students was second-to-none!
*British Swim School is expanding and currently accepting applications for potential instructors! If interested please contact: [email protected].
Location/Facilities
Classes are taught at nine different locations in the Pittsburgh area. We attended lessons in Wexford at the Woodlands Foundation. The facility contained large family oriented locker rooms that made it easy for a momma and her three children to change and shower. Swim lessons are 30 minutes long and are offered weekly. Having an indoor facility is also nice as the water is always heated to 86-88oF and the lessons are offered year round.
