[Warren County, OH June 2020] –The rules at outdoor pools have changed this summer due to Covid-19 restrictions, but the need for children to be safe around water is still a top-of-mind concern for many parents. Countryside YMCA encourages parents to explore the many benefits of swim lessons and know how better ensure their children are safe around water. In Y swim programs, participants can enjoy water sports, enhance or learn new techniques, meet new friends and develop confidence, while also learning safety skills that can save lives. 

Swim Lesson Options at the Y  

“Countryside YMCA swim lessons are happening this summer, and we known for developing smart, strong swimmers and confident kids,” said Karla Toye, Director of Swim Lessons at the Y. “Students learn basic water skills and improve swimming skills as well as practice water safety and water rescue skills to reduce their risk of drowning. Of course, we have fun in the process!” she said.

This summer Countryside YMCA has a variety of swim lesson options. Members can choose to sign up for private swim lessons, progressive swim lesson sessions, or one-week progressive swim lessons. “The one-week swim lessons are a popular summer option because busy families can fit these into their schedules easier,” said Toye.  “Instead of coming one a day a week for five weeks, you come every day for one week and still cover the same swim skills,” she explained. To adhere to social distancing guidelines, swim lesson classes will only have four participants per class.

The Y is also offering aquatic camps this summer. In Aquatics Camp, campers receive daily swim instruction from YMCA certified swim instructors, as well as an hour of pool time each morning filled with pool-based activities and games focused on a special camp theme of the week. All skill levels are welcome in Aquatics Camp.

“I choose to send my granddaughter to swim camp because even though there is a pandemic going on, she still needs to learn to swim. And she needs to be socially active in an environment where she is being safe and looked after,” said kinship grandparent Lynn Becker. “The Y offered what I needed and they offered a half-day option which is perfect,” she added.

The Value of Swim Lessons

In addition to learning lifesaving water safety skills, swimming is a great way to increase physical activity. Swimming also motivates children to strive for self-improvement, teaches goal orientation and cultivates a positive mental attitude and high self-esteem. When kids swim competitively, they learn life lessons of sport and sportsmanship, as well as how to work well with teammates and coaches and how to deal with winning and losing.

 As a leading nonprofit committed to youth development, the Countryside YMCA has been a leader in providing swim lessons and water safety for more than 40 years in Warren County. They offer a variety of programs to choose from including swim lessons, water fitness, lap swimming, competitive swimming, and recreational swimming, diving, and lifeguarding. 

Water Safety Tips from the Y  

No matter how you choose to enjoy the pools this summer, Countryside YMCA encourages parents to take an active role in developing water safety skills with their children. The following are safety tips to practice when in and around the water:

• Only swim when and where there is a lifeguard on duty; never swim alone.

• Adults should constantly and actively watch their children.

• Inexperienced or non-swimmers should wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket. 

• Parents or guardians of young children should be within an arm’s reach.

• Children and adults should not engage in breath holding activities.

To learn more about Countryside YMCA’s swim programs, please contact Karla Toye at Karla.Toye@ymcastaff.org or call her at 513 932 1424 extension 243 or register for swim lessons here. 

###

 About Countryside YMCA

Countryside YMCA- one of the world’s largest YMCAs – is a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening the Warren County community through youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. For over 40 years, Countryside YMCA has embodied the Christian principles that help people achieve a balance of spirit, mind and body. All are welcome to experience the unmatched facilities, outreach, and varied programs available only at the Y. www.countrysideymca.org