Our goal is to offer consistent instructors for scheduled swim classes, however, sometimes a change occurs due to instructor availability, sickness, vacation, etc. Rest assured that all instructors are equally equipped to teach your child how to swim safely, and all instructors follow the same teaching criteria under red cross.

You can register in person at the front desk, or by calling us directly.

We offer rolling enrollment year-round for most group and private lessons. You can join at any time, and tuition is prorated based on the start date. Seasonal camps and special sessions have fixed registration periods.

Parents are welcome to make a request however there are no guarantees.

30 minutes or 60 minutes

A swimsuit, towel, goggles, and a mandatory swim cap . Swim diapers are required for children not yet potty trained. A pair of indoor shoes such as slides or crocs are required in order to walk around on deck or in the changerooms.

Children can start swim lessons as early as 4 months old in parent-and-child classes. Children younger than 3 years of age require private classes.

New students are assessed during their first session or via a quick swim evaluation.

Private is a 1:1 ratio

Semi-Private is a 2:1 ratio (both students in class are grouped based on age/swim ability)

Female only is a 4:1 ratio, 1:1 or 2:1

This is common and okay! Our instructors are trained to handle these moments calmly and compassionately. We’ll invite the child to sit poolside, watch others, or participate in “dry” games until they’re ready. No child is forced into the pool—readiness comes with time and trust.

We understand that you want to be close and support your child, especially during their early swim experiences! However, we encourage parents to observe from the designated viewing area rather than sitting on the pool deck. Here’s why:

• It helps your child focus: Children are more likely to engage and follow instructions when their attention is on the instructor—not looking for mom or dad.

• It builds independence: Giving your child space during lessons encourages confidence and trust in their own abilities.

• Safety first: Keeping the pool deck clear helps instructors and lifeguards maintain a safe, distraction-free environment.

We promise your child is in great hands, and we’ll always let you know how they’re doing. Thank you for helping us create the best learning environment possible!

Yes, absolutely. Preparing your child before swim lessons can help ease nerves and build excitement. Here are a few helpful tips:

• Explain what to expect: Let your child know who will be teaching the class, where it will take place, and what they’ll be doing (like learning to float, kick, or play games).

• Keep it positive: Talk about how fun swimming can be and how proud you are of them for learning a new skill.

• Address any fears: If your child is nervous, listen to their concerns and reassure them that it’s okay to feel that way—and that their instructor is there to help.

• Pack together: Involve your child in packing their swim bag. It builds anticipation and gives them a sense of control.

Let us know in advance if you or your child has any fear or anxiety. We’ll assign the most suitable instructor and make accommodations to ensure a comfortable first experience.

Every child is different, but with consistent attendance (1–2 times per week), most children begin to show significant progress within 6 to 12 weeks. Full swimming independence can take several months to a year, depending on the child’s age, comfort level, and previous exposure to water. Our instructors are committed to helping each child progress as quickly as possible while maintaining the standards of our proven curriculum. Each child’s progress is unique and impacted by age, frequency of lessons, level of comprehension, development of motor and cognitive skills, and their ability to process multiple tasks.

Yes, we offer a full range of swim programs for adults of all ages and skill levels—from total beginners who are uncomfortable in the water, to experienced swimmers looking to refine technique or train for triathlons. Adult classes are only private 1:1 classes unless you are signing up for female only group classes or you have another adult to swim with which would be a 2:1 ratio.

Yes, all instructors are certified in CPR, First Aid, and nationally recognized swim instruction programs.

Before they start instructing, they arrive at VESS with experience and complete certificates. All instructors receive extensive training to enable them to succeed in their role. This extensive training involves 20-30 hours with the owner and a senior coach to ensure VESS's high teaching standards.