Organizing Swim Lessons

Key Points:

• Instructors need to let participants know what is expected from them at the beginning of the class.
• Do you want them to sit on the side of the pool or hold on to the wall?
• Do they need to keep two hands on the wall and their heads above the water when waiting their turn?
• You should always be where everyone can hear instructions and see demonstrations, and where the instructor can maintain safety.
• Keep all participants in arm's reach when they are practicing strokes and skills.
• When working with one student, do not turn your back on the ones that are waiting their turns.
• When having participants practice skills, use a system to keep things organized and moving.
• One at a time
• Two at a time
• Circle swimming
• One after another to the other end of the pool.
• Keep all participants active and minimize downtime.
• When working with one student, have the others practice kicking while holding on to the wall or another static drill appropriate for the level.
• Limit lengthy explanations.
• Use drills and games to practice skills.
• Be enthusiastic and safety conscious while teaching.