When should I start?

The younger the better. Many children begin to develop a fear of the water as they get older, making learning to swim a more trying process. Our Aquatots program starts at 6 months of age and our Baby & Me program starts at 3 months of age.

What time of the year should I start?

Our programs are offered year round. Happier, safer, smarter swimmers swim year round!

Is there a guarantee?

Yes, in our Aquatots program. For children 2 years and older, we will continue to work with your child, PROVIDED THAT YOU CONTINUE TO PRACTICE AT HOME AS WELL, at no additional charge until they meet our Aquatots graduation requirements.

Swimming vs. acclimation

Learning to swim is a process, which is why we recommend starting as young as three months of age and swimming year round. Becoming comfortable in the water is the first step in this process. Then with consistent practice proficiency will follow.

Does my child need ear plugs or ear drops?

Only if recommend by his/her pediatrician. Both are available for purchase in the JNSS store.

Can my child swim with tubes in ears?

Ask your pediatrician. If you are worried about ear infections or your child has tubes in his/her ears, try wearing ear plugs. Available in the JNSS store.

Do you throw them in the water?

Absolutely not.

Can you come to my home?

Yes, we do offer private home lessons. Costs vary depending on location.

What should I look for in a swimming program?

It's a good idea to choose a swimming school or instructor who has liability insurance, several years of experience, warm water, people who can recommend them and a teaching philosophy that you agree with. It's also a good idea to observe some classes before participating, that way you and your child can visualize what to expect. Visit the United States Swim School Association's website at  for a list of swim schools in your area.


FREQUENTLY HEARD EXCUSES NOT TO SWIM

"I'm too old."
"My child is too young."
"She is too scared."
"He cries."
"My son is too curious about the water."
"She might get an ear infection."
"It's too expensive."
"We just haven't made the time, maybe next year."

These are things that people have said when asked  if their child can swim. No one is too old, too young, too scared or too curious to learn how to swim. Everyone is worth the time, tears, money and effort. Yes, sometimes there are tears when children learn how to swim. However, it is a hurdle well worth tackling and the younger you start the easier it is. Swimming at a young age is an asset, not a hazard. You'll be teaching your child a skill that can save his or her life and can also provide so much more. As I frequently say to parents, "They cry when they get in the water for their first lesson and they cry when they have to get out of the water on their last lesson."

Can you "drown-proof" my child? Can you make my child "water-safe"?
There is no such thing as "drown-proof" or "water-safe". Anyone, no matter what their age or swimming skills, can drown. By educating families about preventative drowning measures such as learning to swim, putting up barriers (pool fences, etc.), and learning proper responses (CPR & 1st Aid). we can all create safer, smarter swimmers.

Mary Jackson, Director