Among your list of parenting non-negotiables (chew your food, tie those shoes, ride that bike) making sure your kids know how to swim should be high on the list. Safety first! Summer will be here before we know it, so now’s the perfect time to brush up on those crawl strokes, back floats, and flutter kicks. From introductory classes for wee ones all the way up to conditioning clinics for older kids, there’s something worth diving into in everyone’s lane.
What: YWCA Bergen County
Why: American Red Cross Swim Lessons are offered for children of all ages and at every swim level. Class sizes are kept small to insure safety and maintain the highest quality instruction. Adult swim programs, specialty swim classes including synchronized swimming lessons and lifeguard training are also offered. Classes start at $123 per session.
Where: 112 Oak Street, Ridgewood and Crowne Plaza Englewood, (201) 444-5600 x327
What: Kaplen JCC on the Palisades
Why: Offering parent/toddler classes, Red Cross swim lessons, private/semi-private lessons and even adult classes, you can find a swim program that fits each member of your family at every skill level all under one roof. More serious swimmers can also join their award-winning swim team starting at 5 years old and lifeguard training is also offered for teens. Classes start at $320 per session for members.
Where: 411 East Clinton Ave., Tenafly, (201) 569-7900
What: Goldfish Swim School Wyckoff
Why: Help your child become comfortable and confident in the water with top-quality swim classes offered to kids ages 4 months – 12 years. With a very low student-to-teacher ratio, your child will get the attention they need to develop strong swimming skills. Plus, their warm, 90-degree pool will help make the learn-to-swim experience very inviting. Family swim and birthday parties are also available. Classes start at $92 per month.
Where: 327 Franklin Ave., #20, Wyckoff, NJ, (201) 254-3474
Enter for a chance to win an amazing swim package including a month of swim lessons and more from Goldfish Swim School Wyckoff! Click here to enter.
What: Safe Splash Swim School
Why: Swimming in an 86-degree pool will help kids ages 3 and up feel comfortable while learning how to swim with their top-notch, certified staff. Small group classes and private lessons are available and with no long-term commitments, parents will love the flexibility of enrollment. Special needs classes are also available. Classes start at $112 per session.
Where: 260 Route 4 East, Paramus at 24HourFitness, (201) 399-3606
What: Wyckoff Family YMCA
Why: Babies as young as 6 months through 17 years old can learn how to swim or improve their swimming skills with private, semi-private and group lessons that are offered. Swim evaluations for the older kiddos will give them the confidence they need to own the pool this summer. Classes start at $115 per session for members.
Where: 691 Wyckoff Ave., Wyckoff, (201) 891-2081
What: New York Sports Club
Why: You don’t have to be a member to make a splash at this popular swim class that will totally “waterproof” your kids. All levels are welcome. Classes start at $238 for members/$272 non-members per session.
Where: 1150 Rt. 17N, Ramsey, (201) 327-1122
What: Elite Gymnastics
Why: Whether you have an infant just learning to swim or an advanced swimmer that wants to improve their stroke, this swimming program accommodates everyone’s needs. In addition to teaching fundamental swimming skills, they also focus on fitness and strength to help your child become a confident, strong swimmer. Classes start at $135 per session.
Where: 80 Fifth Ave., Hawthorne, (973) 423-4040
What: Bergen Barracuda Swim Team and Swim Lessons
Why: Beginners as young as 3 years old can learn how to swim from top-notch, experienced coaches in a positive and structured learning environment. More advanced swimmers can try-out for their competitive swim team and continue to work with the high quality staff to refine their strokes and achieve personal goals.
Where: Swimming takes place at Ramapo College in Mahwah and over the summer, swimming takes place at the Ramsey Municipal Pool
What: Swim America
Why: This state-of-the-art learn to swim program is designed to teach all the swim skills your child needs to be safe in and around the water. The elite coaching staff will teach new swimmers the best techniques that are even used on the USA Olympic Swimming Team.
Where: Bergen Community College, 400 Paramus Rd., Paramus
What: American Woman Swim & Fitness
Why: Perfect for kids ages 6 months and older, this hugely successful swim program is all about providing your child with nothing but the best instruction and personal attention. Offering private and small group lessons of no more than 3 kids, you will be thrilled with the end results. Classes start at $209 for 8 lessons
Where: 700 Broadway St., Westwood, (201) 666-6600
