Learn to Swim

The Red Cross Learn to Swim Program is geared to teaching students the strokes in a progressive format. The classes are aught by certified water safety instructors: Deb Currier, Leanne Marcin and Linda Theiss.

They start to learn by mastering basic floating and kicking then building on these skills until they can perform the 6 basic strokes, flip turns and other advanced skills.

The course is broken down into 6 levels with the 6th level having several parts.

In all levels safety practices are stressed and taught.

Level 1

Teaches the student to be comfortable getting in and out of the pool, floating on their back and front and some beginning strokes.

Level 2

Adds to this comfort and moves the student into backstrokes, beginning rhythmic breathing and beginning to tread water.

Level 3

Continues to build on front and back crawl and elementary backstroke. Also treading water and opening eyes under water is stressed. Swimming distances are also increased.

Level 4

Teaches children breaststroke, butterfly and the beginnings of sidestroke. The previously learned strokes are practiced and perfected.

Level 5

Teaches increased distance and further perfection of all strokes, surface dives and diving from the side and board.

Level 6

Students build endurance in the strokes and also learn skills in fitness swimming, personal water safety and lifeguard readiness.