Dive in: Don’t let your kid be the one who’s still sporting a lifejacket while everyone else his age is drenching the lifeguard with high-dive cannonballs. Summer is right around the corner, so now’s the perfect time to soak up those swimming lessons so you can start summer off with a splash.
What: YWCA Bergen County
Why: Offering American Red Cross Swim Lessons for every age and swim level, plus Synchronized Swimming lessons for kids. Classes start at $102 per session.
Where: 112 Oak Street, Ridgewood & Crowne Plaza Englewood, (201) 444-5600 x349
What: Safe Splash Swim School
Why: Kids ages 3 and up can learn to swim in an over 86 degree pool, in their small group classes or privately. Parents will love the flexibility of enrollment (no long term commitments) and quality staff. Special needs classes are also available. Classes start at $112 per session.
Where: 260 Rte 4 East, Paramus at 24HourFitness, (201) 399-3606
What: Wyckoff Family YMCA
Why: Accepting babies as young as 6 months, the Y has got you covered. Private, semi-private, and group lessons available and swim evaluations for the older kiddos will give them the confidence they need to own the pool this summer. Classes start at $110 per session for members.
Where: 691 Wyckoff Ave., Wyckoff, (201) 891-2081
What: Kaplen JCC on the Palisades
Why: Offering everything from parent/toddler classes to Red Cross swim lessons to private/semi-private lessons and even adult classes, you can find a swim program for every member of your family. More serious swimmers can also join their award-winning swim team starting at 5 years old or teens can train to become a lifeguard. Classes start at $320 per session for members.
Where: 411 East Clinton Ave., Tenafly, (201) 569-7900
What: Bergen County YJCC
Why: Enjoy swimming along with your little one starting as young as 6 months at the YJCC’s Little Sharks Swim School. Children starting at 3 years old and up can also build up their confidence and skills in the water with private, semi-private, or group lessons that are offered. Classes start at $99 for members/$129 for non-members per session.
Where: 605 Pascack Rd., Township of Washington, (201) 666-6610
What: New York Sports Club
Why: You don’t have to be a member to take advantage of their popular swim lessons 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: Encouraging enthusiasm about swimming is the name of the game here, along with keeping safe and confident while you are at it. Classes start at $135 per session.
Where: 80 Fifth Ave., Hawthorne, (973) 423-4040
What: Bergen Barracuda Swim Team and Swim Lessons
Why: Lessons for beginners with serious results, and while you’re at it, work your way up to try-outs for the Team.
Where: Swimming takes place at Ramapo College & Ramsey Pool
What: Swim America
Why: Take swim lessons here and perhaps one day advance to the Scarlet Aquatics swim team whose accolades include Ivy League School athletes and National level wins.
Where: Bergen Community College, 400 Paramus Rd., Paramus
