need to know before work today

Your Mission

You transform people from "someone who knows the Y" into "someone who loves the Y." You teach water safety, build physical skills, and foster social-emotional well-being. You are part of the Y's mission to prevent drowning and improve health.

The Curriculum

a skill-based approach designed to be welcoming to all abilities, emphasize achievement, encourage relationship building, and use a clear skill continuum for easy progress.

Training

You have access to eLearnings (Principles of Youth Development, YMCA Swim Lessons Instructor V6: Orientation and Observe & Communicate) and a classroom course to support you.

Before Class

Arrive 15 minutes early.

• Get your lesson plans, toys, and equipment ready.

• Talk to your supervisor about any concerns.

• Make any necessary announcements to the group or parents.

• Hold a "huddle" with your team if needed.

During Class

• NEVER turn your back on the kids. (This is stated twice, so it's very important).

• Actively follow your lesson plan.

• Use students' names and keep them active/swimming (avoid "wall time").

• Be patient, kind, and fun, but firm with discipline.

• Respect lifeguards and other instructors – you are a team.

• Keep equipment organized and off the deck.

• Manage your time well. Start and end class on time.

• Be aware of each student's comfort and skill level.

After Class

• Ensure every child is safely returned to their parent/guardian. Do not leave them unattended.

• Share with parents what was accomplished in class.

• Address any behavioral issues with parents privately.

• Clean up and put supplies away correctly.

• Update the progress tracker for each student.

• Must check out with a supervisor before you leave.

• Complete and hand out Certificates of Achievement on the last day.

Submersion

Start slowly (blowing bubbles, ears in water, face in water). Use games like "bob and say your favorite color" or "peek-a-boo."

Glides

Back glides ("look at the sky") and front glides (focus on technique for Level 4+).

Breathing

Practice rhythmic breathing (breathing in a pattern) and rotary breathing (turning head to side). Use prompts like "count to 10 while you breathe" to ensure they are taking breaths

Arms

Teach arm circles. For backstroke, use the cues: "thumb up, wave hello, pinky down."

Kicks

Work on different kicks (no splashing, fast, big). Count kicks to make it a game ("Can you kick 10 times before I get to the next student?"). Use noodles for support.

Floats & Treading

tice back and front floats. For treading water, use the wall, backpacks, and noodles for support with younger/low-level swimmers.

Games & Combining Skills

Use diving sticks (age-appropriate). Play "Simon Says" to combine skills (e.g., "Simon says put your face in the water while kicking and scooping").

Behavior Guidance

Use positive reinforcement and redirection. Speak to children at their level. After three reminders, you may briefly separate a child to reflect. Physical discipline is NEVER used.

If a Child Cries

If a child cries for 10 minutes, you may ask the parent to assist. If crying continues, the parent may be asked to return later.

Diverse Abilities

Welcome all swimmers. Ask parents about needs in advance. A parent may need to assist in the water.

Diapering & Potty Breaks

Swimmers not potty trained must wear a swim diaper AND a snug-fitting swimsuit. Potty breaks require staff escorting the child

Check-In & Pickup

Swimmers check in with you or the deck manager. Provide feedback to parents in the designated area after class. Children are supervised until picked up.

Emergency Signals

One long whistle blast: Clear the pool immediately.

• One short whistle blast: Stop and look at the lifeguard for behavior redirection.

Payments & Refunds

Payment is due before the first class. Cancellations by the 19th of the prior month for a full refund.

Make-Up Lessons: The Y does not offer make-ups for missed classes

If the Ycancels a class (e.g., pool contamination), they will try to reschedule it, possibly at a different day/time/location.