Aquatics :: FAQ

Browse through some of our most often asked questions about the North Suburban YMCA Aquatics program. Can't find what you're looking for? Contact the Aquatic program director for help.

What is the philosophy of the NSYMCA swim program?

The National YMCA program is a student-centered, holistic aquatic program with an emphasis on aquatic recreation as opposed to a strictly learn-to-swim program. Our NSYMCA was one of the national test centers for the YMCA Learn-to-Swim program. The program incorporates stroke development, water sports and games, water safety, rescue and personal growth.

All six strokes are taught at every level with advancement based on increased endurance and the progressive refinement of the strokes from the very simple to the complex. This approach allows many children to advance sooner, experience incremental success, and thus gain more confidence. Water sports and games continue to enhance the enjoyment and learning experience for participants. Personal growth incorporates our character development which emphasizes practice of the YMCA’s Core Values: Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility.

How many children per class?

The North Suburban YMCA currently adheres to the following instructor-student ratios. All classes need a minimum of three students; exceptions will be made at the discretion of the Aquatics Director. Participants must read the appropriate age prior to the start of a session.

National YMCA Guidelines are as follows:

• Parent/child (infants 6-36 mos.) - 1:12
• Preschool (3 Years - Kindergarten) - 1:6
• Youth (Kindergarten – 13 years)
   -Polliwog, Guppy 1:8
   -Minnow and up 1:10

Why do some instructors teach from the deck and some from the water?

Teachers at all levels should be in the water at times to demonstrate or correct strokes as needed. Frequently with the higher levels instructors need to be on deck to properly observe the students’ strokes. Generally the students at these levels have the cognitive ability to understand and process verbal feedback.

May I request a specific teacher?

You may ask and we will try to accommodate you if possible but we must assign the teachers to the classes that would benefit the most students and be the most efficient use of our staff.

When should I register for classes?

Classes can fill up fast, particularly in popular time slots so register early. We will be closing registration for all classes a week prior to the start date so we have time to assign teachers and coordinate classes to maximize efficiency on the first day. Limited class space will be available after the class closings on a space available basis. Please put your name on the waiting list.

My child is not in the right class, what do I do?

There is a difference between class and level.

1. Progression to the next swim level is based on how effectively the child meets the skill requirements through the entire session. The requirements for each level follow the national standards set forth by the Y of the USA. Progress reports will be issued the last day of each session. Several sessions in the same level are not uncommon.

2. The class your child is placed in will be determined on the first day of each session. The actual class your child is in is not entirely determined by the level your child has attained on his/her progress report. Sometimes a student is faster or slower than the majority of children listed at the same level and we need to place him/her with a different group. This does not mean a promotion or demotion, just a better fit for class structure.

On occasion a child hides his/her true talents from our staff. If you think your child is in the wrong group, talk to the teacher or the supervisor on deck. If your assumption is correct and if there is space in the appropriate class, a change will be made.

How should I dress my infant/toddler for swimming class?

Infants and children not toilet trained should wear swim diapers. Only swim diapers under a bathing suit may be worn in the pool. Regular diapers “explode” when put in water and are prohibited. Plastic pants over the diaper are recommended for extra protection. The lifeguard or instructor will not permit you to participate if proper attire is not worn.

Why does the YMCA use flotation belts (bubbles)?

The YMCA primarily uses floatation with our preschoolers and Polliwogs as a tool for water acclimation. The beginners are leering to explore the water. The belts allow the instructor to bring more than one child safely into the pool at once and greatly increase practice and play time for each student. A child who otherwise would be just struggling to stay on the surface of the water can relax and learn more stroke refinement. Instructors do remove the belts and allow the children to begin moving toward independence.

Parents should keep in mind that no child is “water proof” with or without floatation and regardless of their ability to swim. Close supervision of children is necessary to prevent accidents.

What kind of goggles should I buy?

Although it sounds a little trite, all goggles are not created equal and you get what you pay for. There is a huge difference in the quality and fit of the goggles. Over the years we have seen that the HYDROSPECS JR by Speedo with clear lenses is vastly superior to most other goggles. Don’t be fooled by knock-offs. The Hydrospecs seem to fit the biggest variety of face shapes and sizes, they are the most comfortable, they have the fewest leaks, and they are the easiest for the teachers to adjust. The clear lenses are favored at an indoor pool but letting the child pick out the frame color can make him/her more invested in the goggles.

Where can I get goggles float belts or other swim equipment?

Keifer Swim Shop on the corner of Willow and Pfingsten has equipment for your swimming needs. Most of the sporting goods stores have a selection in stock all year. In season Toys-R-Us and some of the discount stores have selected swimming merchandise.

My child is ill and can’t attend class; can we schedule a make-up lesson?

It is the general policy of the North Suburban YMCA that participants cannot make up classes missed due to short-term illness or vacation. This policy holds especially true in the aquatic programs due to the ratios of children to instructor. If the YMCA cancels a class, a credit will be issued.

What is the water temperature?

The pool water is set for 83 degrees and will fluctuate two degrees above or below the set point.

How do I get my child ready for the swim class?

1. When entering the building for swim lessons please swipe your cards at the front desk. Please enter the pool through one of the locker rooms, not the pool office.

2. Please remove shoes before walking in the shower area or on the pool deck. This helps to keep our deck and water clean.

3. Be sure your child uses the restroom before class. If preschoolers need to use the restroom during class we look to the parent or caregiver for assistance.

4. For infants: Only swim diapers under a bathing suit may be worn in the pool. Regular diapers "explode" when put in water. Plastic pants over the diaper are recommended for extra protection.

5. Children and infants must change clothes in the locker rooms only. We prefer young children use the Family Locker Room. There should be no boys older than five in the Women’s Locker Room at any time and no children under thirteen in the Men’s Locker Room. Adults showering in the Family Locker Room must be in their swim suits.

May I observe my child's class?

Friends and family are invited to observe participants from the windows above the pool. This is so we can keep the children’s attention on their instructor and class.

For safety reasons, be sure to monitor your toddlers while on the pool deck. Young children are often attracted to the edge of the pool or like to run. Walking is essential for everyone to minimize the danger of slipping and falling.

When do I pick up my child from class?

Please pick up your preschooler from the deck promptly at the end of the class. It is very disconcerting to a child to be left cold, wet, and alone when class is over.

How and when do I register my child for swim lesssons?

1. Progression to the next swim level is based on how effectively the child meets the skill requirements through the entire session. The requirements for each level follow the national standards set forth by the Y of the USA. Progress reports will be issued the last day of each session. Several sessions in the same level are common.

2. The class your child is placed in will be determined on the first day of each session. The actual class your child is in is not entirely determined by the level your child has attained on their progress report. Sometimes a student is faster or slower than the majority of children listed at the same level and we need to place him/her with a different group

3. Classes can fill up fast, particularly in popular time slots so register early. We will be closing registration for all classes a week prior to the start of class so we have time to assign teachers and coordinate classes to maximize efficiency on the first day of class. Limited class openings will be available after the class closings on a space available basis.

4. It is the general policy of the North Suburban YMCA that participants cannot make up classes missed due to short-term illness or vacation. This policy holds especially true in the aquatic programs due to the ratios of children to instructor. If the YMCA cancels a class, a credit will be issued.