Adaptive Swim Lessons

Swim Whisperers® swim instruction is based on the Swim Angelfish Methodology. Our instructors assess and identify the underlying problem the swimmer is having learning to swim, and then implement the strategies they need to overcome these roadblocks. In short, the goal of Swim Whisperers® is to turn any child into a confident and independent swimmer, no matter their situation or ability.

The  Swim Whisperers® program was specially designed to cater to children with severe to mild sensory issues, problems with motor skills, difficulty processing information, attention issues, or any other condition that might physically or psychologically impede the process of learning to swim. In some cases, the obstacle may be something as simple as a child who is unwilling to put their head under water, or who is terrified to let go of the side of the pool. Our program addresses all kinds and severity of challenges.

All of our Swim Instructors are trained in the following:

• First Aid and CPR
• Adaptive Swim Whisperers® Certified

Building a strong bond matters! That’s why we usually pair your child with the same dedicated Swim Whisperers® instructor for continuity and comfort. This allows your child to build a trusting relationship and make consistent progress. In rare cases, if a substitute is needed, we’ll make sure they’re fully informed about your child’s goals and routines to ensure a seamless transition.

Yes, we do. We offer adaptive swim lessons to people of all ages! Our method works with all ages and abilities and the ability to be in a private lesson can provide an opportunity for an adult to learn in a comfortable and supportive environment.

To enroll in our Adaptive Swim Lessons, please contact Samantha Goveia at 802-296-2850 ex 106 or email her at sgoveia@uvacswim.org We will work with you to find a time and instructor that works best for your child.

Learn to be Safe in the Water, Enjoy Swimming for Fitness and FUN

Our Adaptive Instructors follow a curriculum where water safety and comfortability comes first. These adaptive lessons are designed to teach the critical lifetime swim skills you and your child need to be safe in and around the water. We would like to meet your swimmer wherever they are at in their swimming journey and build off of their experiences to create a strong relationship with the water. No one is ever drown-proof, but practicing and teaching life-saving techniques with your swimmer and exposing them to these environments can better prepare them for their life near and in the water.

What are the benefits of learning to swim early?

Learning to swim early will not only help keep your child safe, but will also help shape their character. Swimming teaches confidence, determination and self-reliance, as well as developing motor skills and balance. Swimmers tend to be high academic achievers because swimming teaches how to set goals and achieve them. Swimming is a year-round activity and a very effective exercise to keep you and your child healthy and happy.

How long will it take to learn to swim?

This depends on you or your child’s age and level of fitness. It may take three or more sessions of 6 lessons each for preschoolers to learn the basic skills of floating, kicking, returning to the wall and rolling over on their back to breathe, float and rest. Older students that have mastered the first skills of breathing, floating and kicking will learn more rapidly.

How do I know when I can discontinue swimming lessons?

Knowing how to swim means that a person can maintain themselves indefinitely in the water. To do so requires the ability to exhale used air and inhale new air. That’s called Aerobic Swimming. (Just like being able to talk while you jog!) Our standard is that a person should be able to swim 300 yards non-stop, and swim a variety of different styles of swimming to be considered a “swimmer.” 300 yards is important. Scientists have found that humans can swim 200 yards without being able to breathe effectively. But without the ability to breathe effectively, eventually that person will tire and get into trouble, and possibly endanger their life. We go 1/3 beyond that point to set the standard of 300 yards of non-stop swimming.

Please note that there may be a slight delay in being scheduled for lesson requests, but we will work quickly to get you connected!

• Payment is required when you have been matched with an instructor, before the start of lessons.
   
• Please allow 7-14 business days or time frame stated above. We cannot guarantee your schedule requests can be met or that a specific coach will be available.
   
• If we are unable to schedule a coach, your payment will not be processed.
   
• Pool emergencies can occur last minute. In the case of closures for any reason, the lesson will be rescheduled.
   
• No more than two participants of similar ability will be in a shared half-hour lesson.
   
• Cancellations made 24 hours in advance can be rescheduled. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance will not be rescheduled and the lesson is forfeited.
   
• The Membership rate is applicable for families or individuals with an active family membership for duration of lesson set.

Extended Swim Time Policies:

• If you are a UVAC Member, please enjoy swimming before/after the private lessons!
• For those who are Non-Members, if you/your swimmer wish to stay longer to swim (before or after lessons) Day Passes are available for purchase for 25% off the day when the lessons take place. Free swim time is NOT included in our private swim lessons fee.
• Please note that extended swim may not be available due to capacity constraints regardless of UVAC Membership Status. You MUST check in with the front desk to confirm your family's ability for free swim.
• We are working hard to be able to offer swim lessons for more swimmers in this session, and to make sure that our lifeguard staff is properly prepared for the number of swimmers that will be in our pools.