Swimming Lesson Types Explained

At TAC Aquatics, we offer a variety of swim lesson formats to meet the needs of swimmers at every stage of their aquatic journey—from babies taking their first splash to teens preparing for lifeguarding certifications. Here’s a breakdown of the lesson types we currently offer:

 

Parent & Tot Lessons (Ages 4 months – 3 years)

A gentle and playful introduction to the water—for both child and caregiver.

Our Parent & Tot classes are designed to help young children become comfortable in the water while bonding with their parent or guardian. A certified instructor leads each class, guiding both the adult and child through songs, games, floating techniques, and water safety habits.

Key Benefits:

• Builds comfort and trust in the water

• Strengthens the caregiver-child bond

• Teaches early buoyancy and movement

• Great social experience for babies and toddlers

No previous swim experience required for either the child or the parent!

 

 Low Ratio Preschool Swim Lessons (Ages 3–5)

Gentle, supportive swim lessons for our youngest learners.

Designed specifically for preschoolers, these low-ratio classes (3:1 or 4:1) provide a safe, encouraging environment where young children can explore the water, develop foundational swim skills, and gain confidence.

What Makes Preschool Lessons Unique:

• Instructors trained in early childhood swim development

• Focus on fun, comfort, and water safety

• Age-appropriate games and learning techniques

• Smooth transition to independent swimming

These lessons are perfect for children who are ready to swim on their own but still benefit from extra attention and patience from their instructor.

 

Low Ratio Swim Lessons (Ages 6+)

Small groups. Big progress.

Our Low Ratio Swim Lessons offer the perfect balance between personalized instruction and the social, motivating atmosphere of group learning. With a maximum of 3–4 swimmers per instructor, these lessons ensure that every child receives individual attention while also learning alongside peers.

Why Choose Low Ratio Lessons?

• Increased feedback and hands-on guidance

• More time spent swimming, less waiting

• Tailored instruction for each child’s level

• Builds confidence in a fun, team-oriented setting

These lessons follow Lifesaving Society levels and are ideal for swimmers who thrive in smaller group settings but don’t need full private instruction.

 

Private Swimming Lessons (Ages 3+)

One-on-one instruction tailored to your swimmer’s individual needs and pace.

Private lessons are the fastest and most effective way to improve swimming skills. Whether your child is a beginner learning to float or an advanced swimmer refining their strokes, private lessons allow for highly personalized coaching and rapid progress.

Best For:

• Nervous swimmers who need extra attention

• Students with specific goals or unique needs

• Faster skill acquisition in a shorter time

• Flexible pacing and scheduling

Semi-private lessons (2 swimmers) may also be available upon request.

 

Patrol Program (Rookie, Ranger, Star)

Preparation for lifeguard training begins here.

The Swim Patrol program bridges the gap between learn-to-swim levels and lifesaving certifications. This three-level program—Rookie, Ranger, and Star—focuses on swimming endurance, first aid skills, and lifesaving techniques. It introduces swimmers to leadership, rescue skills, and water safety in a more challenging and rewarding format.

What’s Included:

• Stroke refinement and endurance development

• First aid, rescue techniques, and problem-solving

• Fitness elements and timed swims

• Confidence-building in more advanced swim environments

Recommended for strong swimmers (typically ages 8+) who have completed the upper levels of the Red Cross or Lifesaving Society swim program.

 

Certification Courses (Bronze Star, Bronze Medallion, Bronze Cross, CPR-C)

Lifesaving and leadership qualifications for future lifeguards, instructors, and aquatic professionals.

Our certification pathway is designed for teens and pre-teens who are ready to take the next step in aquatic safety, leadership, and career development. These nationally recognized programs provide the skills needed to pursue employment as a lifeguard or swim instructor.

Certifications Offered:

• Bronze Star: Introduction to lifesaving principles

• Bronze Medallion: Focus on rescue skills, judgment, and fitness

• Bronze Cross: Advanced lifesaving techniques and teamwork

• CPR-C: Comprehensive CPR training for adults, children, and infants

Each course is taught by certified instructors and includes both written and practical components. Certain courses have prerequisites based on age or previous certifications.

 

Need Help Choosing the Right Lesson?

If you’re not sure which swim program is the right fit, our team is happy to guide you. Whether your child is brand new to swimming or looking to complete their certifications, we’ll help you choose the best path based on age, experience, and goals.