Outdoor Swimming Lessons

New Sessions Start Mondays

Stage 1 | Water Acclimation

Stage 2 | Water Movement

Stage 3 | Water Stamina

Stage 4 | Stroke Introduction

Stage 5 | Stroke Development

Stage 6 | Stroke Mechanics

Swim lessons at the Y focus on learning vital water safety skills and stroke development through a progressive curriculum.

From infant swim lessons, to swim lessons for toddlers, and even sessions for adults, we're proud to offer something for everyone, beginners and experienced!

YMCA SWIM PROGRAM INFORMATION

Parent and Child

Designed for ages 6 months to 3 years, this fun, instructor-led class teaches water safety basics through songs, play, and gentle movement—all with a parent or caregiver by their side. No swim experience needed!

Safety Around Water

Help your child gain water confidence and safety skills with YMCA SAW classes. From beginners to advanced swimmers, each level focuses on age-appropriate swim techniques and drowning prevention in a fun, supportive setting.

Swim Basics & Strokes

Swimmers gain comfort and confidence through safe habits and underwater exploration. For older students, we refine stroke techniques and advanced safety skills, promoting well-being and a lifetime of physical activity. Join us for Stages 1-6!

Safety Around Water

Beginner

Start strong with YMCA Beginner Swim! Kids learn to float, kick, and enter/exit the pool safely—perfect for first-time swimmers building water confidence.

Intermediate

Build on the basics in Intermediate Swim. Swimmers improve strokes, gain endurance, and learn to tread water while having fun and staying safe.

Advanced

Advance your swim skills with confidence. This level focuses on stroke refinement, endurance, and water safety—great for kids ready to take the next step.

Swim Basics & Stokes

STAGE 1 | WATER ACCLIMATION

Helps new swimmers get comfortable in the water. Kids learn to safely enter and exit the pool, blow bubbles, and float with assistance.

STAGE 2 | WATER MOVEMENT

Builds beginner skills for independent movement. Swimmers learn to float, glide, and tread with minimal support.

STAGE 3 | WATER STAMINA

Develops endurance and basic stroke skills. Swimmers improve front and back crawl while building strength and confidence.

STAGE 4 | STROKE INTRODUCTION

Introduces freestyle, backstroke, and breaststroke basics. Swimmers gain control and refine technique over longer distances.

STAGE 5 | STROKE DEVELOPMENT

Enhances stroke technique and builds endurance. Kids learn butterfly basics and refine competitive strokes with a focus on safety.

STAGE 6 | STROKE MECHANICS

Refines strokes and prepares for swim team or lifeguarding. Focuses on technique, turns, and swim endurance across all major strokes.

What swim lesson should I select for my child?
Swim Lesson stages and descriptions.

Siouxland YMCA Programs Refund Policy:

All refund requests will be accessed with a 50% service charge and be credited to their Norm Waitt Sr. YMCA account. No refunds will be issued for requests less than 10 business days prior to the start of the season. If a program is canceled due to insufficient registration, you will be notified prior to the start date and will receive a full refund or credit on account.