Comprehensive Guide to Swimming Classes in Queens

Swimming is an essential life skill, offering numerous physical and mental health benefits. Whether you're a parent looking to introduce your child to the water or an adult seeking to improve your technique, Queens offers a variety of swimming programs to suit all ages and skill levels. This guide provides detailed information about swimming classes available in Queens, covering everything from beginner lessons to competitive training.

Introduction to Swimming Programs in Queens

Queens boasts a diverse range of swimming programs designed to cater to various needs and preferences. From community centers to private sports complexes, options abound for individuals looking to learn or enhance their swimming skills. These programs emphasize not only skill development but also water safety, ensuring a secure and enjoyable learning environment.

Queens College Swimming Programs

Queens College offers swim lessons at its Olympic-sized indoor pool housed within the fitness center. The college provides a structured approach to swimming education with six "Learn to Swim" classes, as well as parent-child lessons for toddlers aged 1-3.

Class Levels at Queens College

Tiny Tots: This class introduces water exploration to 4 and 5-year-olds in the shallow end, focusing on basic water acclimation.
Level Courses: Starting with fundamental skills like freestyle and backstroke, these courses progress to endurance training and diving. A competitive level is also available for qualified swimmers.

QAC Swim School

The QAC Swim School provides a comprehensive swimming education program with classes tailored to different age groups and skill levels. Registration can be completed through their online portal.

Class Descriptions

Dolphin (3-5 years): This introductory class requires no prior experience. Swimmers wear a bubble and are introduced to the basics of swimming and water safety.
Sunfish (5-6 years): A continuation of the Dolphin lessons, this class uses bubbles as needed while focusing on water comfort and safety skills. Freestyle and back float are introduced.
Level 2 (6-15 years): This class requires no prior experience and focuses on water acclimation and basic aquatic skills.
Level 3 (6-15 years): Students must be able to swim unassisted for 5-10 yards. Competitive strokes like freestyle and backstroke are taught, and other strokes are introduced.
Stroke Clinic Level 4-6 (6-15 years): Students must be able to swim unassisted the full length of the pool (25 yards). All competitive strokes are refined.
Pre-Team (6-15 years): This class requires completion of Level 4 or an equivalent class. It offers a more competitive approach and serves as the next step in competitive swim training, meeting twice a week for 60 minutes.

Important Policies at QAC Swim School

Make-up Policy: Make-ups are not guaranteed for missed classes due to travel or time conflicts. A doctor's note is required for make-ups due to illness, and these must be completed within the same session. Detailed make-up policies are outlined in the online agreements at checkout.
Registration Fee: $50 of the dues are non-refundable as a registration fee.
Waitlist: If a desired class is closed, signing up for the waitlist is recommended. Additional classes will be provided based on demand from sign-ups and the waitlist.
Pool Area Rules: Children should not enter the pool area until it is time for class and an instructor is present.
Make-up Class Limit: Each participant is allowed only one make-up per semester, available upon request and to be completed before the end of the semester. Make-ups will not be carried forward into a new semester.
Parent Responsibilities: Parents must remove their shoes when bringing children onto the pool deck. Children aged 5 and up should use gender-appropriate locker rooms. Every child over five years of age must wear a swimming cap. Eating is not allowed in the pool area.

General Guidelines

Children progress at their own rate, and comparing their progress with others is discouraged. The time it takes to learn to swim varies depending on age, maturity, and fitness. Continuous evaluation ensures proper group placement, and students may be moved during the session. While instructor consistency is prioritized, changes may occur, and the same instructor cannot be guaranteed from session to session.

Read also: Queens College Academic Dates

Campus Access

When attending classes at Queens College, it is important to use the Kennedy Hall entrance, heading toward Robert F. Kennedy Hall.

Queensborough Community College Swimming Program

Queensborough Community College offers swimming programs where parents can join their children in the pool up to age 6. The Tiny Tots sessions are designed to develop basic water skills through songs and games. By age 7, children can participate in lessons on their own, provided they meet the height requirement of being able to stand in 3.5 feet of water.

Program Highlights

Tiny Tots Sessions: These sessions focus on developing basic water skills through songs and water games.
Age Requirements: Children can participate with their parents until age 6, and independently from age 7 if they meet the height requirement.
Competition Level: Swimmers at the competition level receive coaching on swimming techniques, exploring style, racing, and diving.
Parent Viewing: Parents can observe the lessons from a nearby dry balcony in the pool area.

Safety and Supervision

At Queensborough Community College, the safety of children, parents/guardians, and staff is the top priority. Parents/guardians are required to remain in the building while their children swim. If a swimmer does not follow the instructor or lifeguard's directions, parents may be asked to assist or join their child in the pool.

Level-Based Classes

Level 1 (Water Acclimation): This class is for beginners, focusing on safety skills and water acclimation. Students learn basic aquatic skills such as blowing bubbles, kicking, and putting their face in the water.
Level 2 (Primary Skills): Students in this class are acclimated and ready to learn foundational/safety skills.
Level 3 (Stroke Development): Children in this class understand how to keep themselves safe in the water and require minimal to no floatation device support. Children will begin to learn the mechanics of swimming front crawl, backstroke, and be introduced to the breaststroke.
Level 4 (Stroke Enhancement): Children in this class can effectively swim the front crawl and backstroke and will enhance their training in these areas. Students will swim 25-yard laps of four strokes (front, back, breast, sidestroke) without assistance. Students will build their endurance and begin to practice open turns.
Level 5 (Stroke Refinement): Students in this class will have advanced knowledge of sidestroke, breaststroke, backstroke, and intermediate-advanced knowledge of the butterfly stroke. Students are expected to swim 50 yards independently and be able to maintain themselves treading above the water for up to two minutes.
Level 6 (Advanced Stroke Technique and Endurance): Designed for students refining stroke techniques, building endurance, and mastering advanced skills such as competitive starts, turns, and longer-distance swimming, this class is for ages 10-14. Prerequisites include the ability to swim a minimum of 50 yards (2 laps) without stopping or needing assistance, and the ability to swim backstroke, breaststroke, and freestyle with rhythmic breathing.

Advanced Training

For ages 10-14, the program covers all four basic competitive strokes (backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly, freestyle), rescue stroke, flip turns, and diving. The focus is on refining the swimmer's technique to increase efficiency, speed, endurance, and comfort in the water.

Other Swimming Programs in Queens

Beyond Queens College and QAC Swim School, numerous other organizations offer swimming lessons in Queens.

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Community House in Forest Hills

The nonprofit Community House in Forest Hills provides swimming lessons for children of all skill levels, with lifeguards always on duty.

Pamper Paddlers: For babies ages 6-48 months, this session introduces them to the pool with activities like kicking, bobbing, and blowing bubbles alongside their parents.
Group Lessons: Children ages 4 and up are evaluated and placed in group lessons based on their ability.
Membership Perks: Membership is not required, but members get first-priority registration for classes.

Take Me to the Water

With three locations in Queens, Take Me to the Water offers swim lessons for babies and kids, featuring certified teachers and lifeguards on duty.

Baby and Parent Classes: For infants and tots aged 6 months to 2.5 years, these classes help them feel comfortable in the water through songs and bubbles.
Small Group Lessons: Three and 4-year-olds enjoy near-private lessons with one instructor for every two children.
Skill-Based Classes: Children aged 5 and up are placed in classes based on their skill level.
Competition Level Team: More experienced swimmers can join the competition level team.
Private Lessons: Private lessons for children with disabilities can be arranged.

YMCA Branches in Queens

The YMCA offers numerous swim options at its Queens branches, including the Central Queens Y in Forest Hills and the Long Island City Y.

Customizable Classes: The Central Y allows you to design your own class by finding two other parents/kids and creating a class with a specific niche. The Y will provide the instructor.
Standard Swim Classes: Options include mommy and me classes for infants and tots 7-36 months, options for preschoolers, and tiered levels for kids and teens through age 18.

Swim Strong

Nonprofit Swim Strong emphasizes water safety in its lessons, such as the 30-minute Get Ready Get Wet program for preschoolers, which teaches survival swimming techniques like flipping onto the back and floating.

Affordable Classes: With a mission to spread its message of safety, Swim Strong tries to keep classes affordable and even provides a scholarship option.
Varied Classes: Options range from hour-long Learn to Swim basics to Competitive & Stroke Enhancement.

Astoria Sports Complex

The Astoria Sports Complex is a go-to spot for sports and recreation, including swimming lessons.

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Parent-and-Me Classes
Pee-Wee Classes: For 4 to 6-year-olds, these classes build confidence in the water.
Big Kid Classes: Classes are available for ages 7-10 and ages 11-17.
Private and Semi-Private Options

Note: Membership at Astoria Sports Complex is required to register for swim classes.

New York City Parks Department

The New York City Parks Department offers FREE swimming programs at pools across the city for children younger than 18.

Free Programs: Registration is done via lottery, which opens at various times throughout the year.
Parental Involvement: While programs are free for kids, a parent/guardian must be a member of a Queens rec center for kids under 6 to take swim lessons, as guardian participation is required.

Additional Options for Swimming Lessons

Brooklyn College: Offers swimming classes on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
Woodside, St. Sebastianâs: Book classes by level/age.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Swimming Program

Age and Skill Level: Ensure the program aligns with the swimmer's age and current skill level.
Instructor Qualifications: Look for certified and experienced instructors.
Class Size: Smaller class sizes often allow for more individualized attention.
Safety Measures: Verify that the program prioritizes water safety and has lifeguards on duty.
Location and Schedule: Choose a location and schedule that is convenient for you.
Cost and Payment Options: Understand the pricing structure and available payment options.
Make-up Policies: Review the policies for missed classes and make-up options.

Tips for a Successful Swimming Experience

Arrive on Time: Ensure you arrive on time for each class to maximize learning and minimize disruption.
Proper Attire: Wear appropriate swimwear and bring necessary items like towels, goggles, and swimming caps.
Follow Instructions: Pay attention to the instructor's guidance and follow their instructions carefully.
Practice Regularly: Encourage regular practice to reinforce skills learned in class.
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water before, during, and after swimming.
Communicate Concerns: Address any concerns or questions with the instructor promptly.
Be Patient: Learning to swim takes time and practice, so be patient and encouraging.
Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge and celebrate milestones to maintain motivation and enthusiasm.

Preparing for Swim Classes

Before starting swim classes, it's essential to prepare both physically and mentally. This includes ensuring the swimmer is comfortable with basic water activities, such as splashing and putting their face in the water. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the facility's rules and regulations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Overcoming Common Fears

Many beginners experience some level of fear or anxiety when learning to swim. It's crucial to address these fears with patience and understanding. Start by acclimating to the water gradually, and focus on building confidence through positive reinforcement and encouragement.

The Importance of Water Safety

Water safety is a fundamental aspect of all swimming programs. Educating swimmers about potential hazards and teaching them essential safety skills can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries. These skills include knowing how to float, tread water, and recognize signs of distress.

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