How to Choose a Swim Instructor

Step-by-Step Guide

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   Step 1: Be sure to choose a qualified instructor.

   The instructor should be a member of at least one of the following organizations:
   US Swim School Association, World Aquatic Babies & Children's Network, American Swim Coaches Association, United States Swimming and/or United States Masters Swimming.
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   Step 2: Ensure that the instructor has knowledge of children and adults and the approaches needed.

   The instructor must be able to take a "child-centered" approach vs. a task oriented approach.
   
   If learning as an adult, seek an instructor who will treat you as an adult. , Positive reinforcement will give the student confidence to improve and make corrections. , If your child is under the age of 3, the instructor uses a pool with a minimum water temperature of 87 degrees.
   
   If the child is between 3 & 5, the water temperature should be at least 85 degrees, and if the child is between 6 & 12, the water should be at least 83 degrees for swimming instruction.
   
   Competitive swimmers (usually age 6 and over) can practice in water as cool as 78 degrees (although 80
   - 82 is ideal) because they are working harder, getting their heart rate up, and will actually even sweat in the water from the intensity of the workout. , The instructor should use Lesson Plans. , The instructor should promise a particular teacher; student ratio.
   
   Here are some excellent guidelines: 6
   - 36 months:
   Parent & Me format, up to 6:1 ratio is okay since parent is in the water. 3
   - 4 year olds:
   No more than a 4:1 ratio if a buoyancy device is being used.
   
   Without a buoyancy device, no more than a 2:1 ratio. 5
   - 6 year olds:
   Up to 6:1 ratio if a buoyancy device is being used.
   
   No more than 4:1 ration if no buoyancy device. 7
   - 12 year olds:
   Up to 8:1 ratio if the children can stand and/or have a buoyancy device.
   
   Adults:
   Up to 4:1 ratio, adult students to teacher. , The instructor should allow you to watch every second of the class! If the instructor says you can't watch, you need to find another program.
   
   Never leave your child alone with anyone.
   
   Also, you are an extra set of eyes making sure your child is safe in the water.
   
   Constant supervision is one critical aspect of drowning prevention. , In general, you would want a teacher who is at least 18 years of age (there are exceptions). ,, If the instructor has a "no refunds" policy, you better do some extensive observation of the instructor before hiring him/her.
   
   Find out what they will do if you miss class due to illness.
   
   If a make-up isn't offered, a credit for a future class is a good option. , No chlorine is your biggest concern, and low PH will actually cause the eyes to get sore.
   
   Tip:
   You can buy a test kit at stores supplying pool equipment (box stores, sports stores, hardware stores, etc.) and test the water yourself.
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   Step 3: Check that the instructor is knowledgeable and can help the child or adult improve skills

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   Step 4: but more importantly

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   Step 5: positively reinforces things the student does well.

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   Step 6: Check the pool quality.

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   Step 7: Ask about the lesson details.

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   Step 8: Be sure that the ratios are suitable.

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   Step 9: Only agree if you can participate too.

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    Step 10: Seek an instructor of responsible age.

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    Step 11: If learning as an adult

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    Step 12: seek an instructor trained in teaching people with fear; he/she can teach you how to be in control in deep water.

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    Step 13: Do your research before payment.

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    Step 14: Make sure the water is tested regularly for appropriate chlorine and PH levels.

Detailed Guide

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