The time it takes to read a text message or answer a phone call
is all it takes for a child to drown. Never assume that because several
adults are by the pool, someone is watching the kids. Play it safe.
Assign one adult, a Water Watcher, to supervise pool activities at all
times.
When not in use, pools should be fenced and gates should be kept
locked. Recent studies indicate that having a four-sided fence around a
pool can reduce drownings by up to 80%.
But a fence is of little value if the gate
is left unlocked.
There’s a difference between a Coast Guard-approved flotation
device and an inflatable pool toy. One looks adorable on a
three-year-old, but is worthless in protecting your child from drowning.
Take a minute and supply your pool with approved PFDs and life vests.
When children are at the pool your undivided attention needs to
be on watching them. Not working on your tan, squirting sunscreen or
taking a one-minute siesta. Even if your children have had swimming
lessons, you need to supervise them closely.
The only thing scarier than a child beginning to drown is the
person who tries to be a hero. The instinct to dive in and rescue is one
you need to overcome. Typically, the panicking child will cause the one
attempting a rescue to drown with them. If you see someone struggling
in the water, stay on land and toss him or her a flotation device,
extend to them a rope or hold out a pole.
Learn To Swim!
With our indoor and outdoor pools, The YMCA of the Capital Area has water fun for everyone. We have programs for young and old, whether you are a beginner swimmer, competitive swimmer or recreational swimmer. We have water wellness classes designed for the physically fit person or someone seeking more mobility.

Choose to be safe with group lessons or private one-on-one instruction!
The YMCA of the Capital Area swimming lessons are designed to give every participant the chance to learn and succeed. Participants are grouped together based on their age and ability level, and the Y’s core values of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility are incorporated into every lesson.
Group Lessons
Parent/Child (6-36 months)
This fun, water orientation class is designed for children 6-36 months. Parents are taught helpful ways to practice movements in the water with their children along with safety information and activities for development.
Preschool (ages 3-5)
The preschool classes offer progressive swim lessons. The lessons start with basic swimming skills and work toward the development of breath control and longer distance swimming.
Youth (ages 6-14)
Participants are divided into six levels of skill progression while developing greater swimming ability.
Adults
Participants are grouped with peers of similar ability while working on improving their swimming skills.
Group Swimming Lesson Fees:
Member: $50
Program Particpant: $90
Private Lessons (one-on-one)
Private swimming lessons are a great opportunity to learn to swim from a skilled teacher on a one-on-one basis. Lessons are available for all ages at all levels and are set up depending on the availability of instructors. Each lesson is 30 minutes long.
Private Lesson Fees: 6 Sessions
Member: $180
Program Participant: $300
Click Here to download the aquatics brochure.
Click Here to download the aquatics parent handbook and class descriptions.

Aquatics Programs
▼ Swimming lessons
▼ Swim teams
▼ Lifeguard certification
▼ Recreational swim
▼ Lap swimming
▼ Water aerobics
▼ Masters swim
Fall Swim Lesson Special:
Single Session: 8 Sessions
Member: $50
Program Participant: $90
Bundled Session: 2 sessions, 16 classes
Member: $85
Program Participant: $165