GREATER JOLIET AREA YMCA

At the Y, we know enjoying time in the pool is a fun way for kids and families to beat the summer heat. But in order to make a splash, cool off, and enjoy the best moments of summer, we also know that safety comes first. As the nation’s leading swim lesson instructor, the YMCA is proud to offer a wide range of swim lessons to help members of all ages stay fit, healthy, and strong when they spend time in and around the water. Most importantly, YMCA swim lessons will help you gain confidence and learn vital water safety skills that will last a lifetime.

To learn more about summer swim lessons, view the program guide of your local Y branch by clicking below

• C.W. Avery Family YMCA (Plainfield)
• Galowich Family YMCA (Joliet)
• Morris Hospital YMCA

We also encourage you to use our Swim Lesson Selector to quickly identify your child’s swim stage. For a full description of our swim lesson stages, click here.

And don’t forget, early bird rates for our Summer 2 session are available through Monday, June 30. Don’t miss your chance to save!

REGISTER TODAY

May is National Water Safety Month. When the weather starts to heat up, the pools, lakes, oceans, rivers and other bodies of water start calling! While swimming can be a very enjoyable activity this summer, it is important to remind all parents and caregivers of the importance of water safety. That is why the Greater Joliet Area YMCA is sharing these six tips on how children can stay safe in and around the water.

Tip # 1: Make sure children know to always ask permission before going in or near the water.

Teaching your children to be water smart is the first step in water safety – be sure they understand the importance of asking permission before going in or near the water.

Tip # 2: Never swim alone without a water watcher.

When children are swimming, make sure they are actively supervised at all times. Teach your children that they should only swim in locations where a lifeguard is on duty, or where a responsible adult agrees to watch the children in the water without distractions.

Tip # 3: Supervise your children whenever they’re in or near water.

Whether it’s bath time or taking a dip in a pool or waterfront, make sure your children are within arm’s reach at all times.

Tip # 4: Don’t engage in breath holding activities.

Both adults and children should not hold their breath for a prolonged amount of time while swimming, as this can be dangerous.

Tip # 5: Wear a life jacket.

Inexperienced or non-swimmers should always wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket while in or around the water.

Tip # 6: Don’t jump in the water to save a friend who is struggling in deep water.

If an adult or child finds their friend in deep water unexpectedly, their natural reaction may be to jump in the water to try and save them. Even if they are a great swimmer, a panicked person will overpower them, pulling the rescuer under water. The Y’s Safety Around Water program teaches the “reach, throw, don’t go” concept of using a long object to reach for them, and pull them to safety. By using this technique, an adult or child can help their friend without compromising their own safety.

You can also ensure your child’s safety by enrolling them in swim lessons at the Y. Just like teaching your children to look both ways before they cross the street, having them participate in formal water safety lessons teaches them an important life skill. Learn more about our swim lesson curriculum and schedules here, and register online today!