Is there a deadline for registration? When will I know if my child's class gets cancelled?

Registration for each session closes at 12pm on the Wednesday before the session begins. Classes are subject to cancellation pending minimum enrollment, and the decision is made based on registration on this day. 

Can I lap swim during swim lesson times? 

Lap swimming is typically available during lesson times. Please see our Lap Swimming page for more information about dates, times, and associated fees.

How do I know what level my child is?

This depends entirely on their experience and comfort in the water. Find a description of our levels here. If your child has never had swimming lessons before and is pre-school-aged, we recommend starting in Angelfish (our parent/tot class) or Baby Belugas (our lowest group level). We've added a new class called "Big Belugas" for children aged 6 and up who have limited exposure to swimming. Children with some comfort and exposure to the water may be more suited for Clownfish, and those with a concrete grasp of water-safety skills would do better in Dolphins. Electric Eels is tailored to learning all four strokes, and Flying Fish is designed for refinement of competitive swim skills prior to joining a swim team. If you're still not sure, contact our Aquatics Lead: 805.546.3100x2259. 

I am signing up for several sessions. How do I schedule my child? Can I place them in different levels?

Generally, it is not recommended that you sign your child up for different levels in consecutive sessions, as passing a level is not automatic but based on completion of specific skills. If your child has little water experience it is recommended to sign them up for the same level over multiple sessions. For students more comfortable in the water who have taken lessons before, it may be beneficial to enroll in the highest level completed previously. It is not uncommon for a child to remain in the same level throughout the summer – especially in Dolphin and Electric Eels - this does not mean they are not progressing or learning, just that they aren't quite ready for the next set of skills. If your child does pass a level sooner than expected, arrangements can be made with the Aquatics Lead to transfer classes if class space is available. However, classes tend to fill quickly, especially our lower levels, so as soon as you are aware that your child is registered in the wrong level, please contact us.

My child is fearful of the water, what should I do?       

There are many different reasons why a child may be fearful of the water. Some children are hesitant to swim with an instructor who is a stranger to them, some may dislike the taste or feel of the water, and others might just be tired or hungry on that particular day. A positive swimming experience starts at home, not at the pool. Try playing with toys or blowing bubbles during bath time, giving words of reassurance and encouragement on the way to swim lessons, or incentivizing swim lessons with stickers or something similar. Teach them to enjoy and respect the water, rather than fear it. When they're ready for swim lessons, try starting with classes with low student-teacher ratios, such as private or semi-private lessons. You can also enroll in an Angelfish class with your child to help them adjust to the water in a more familiar environment. We prioritize children's comfort and safety in the water, and want both you and your child to enjoy lessons with us. 

How long will it take for my child to learn to swim?

There's no easy answer to this one: children vary greatly in learning capabilities and motor skill development. Repetition, patience and persistence are key factors in learning swim skills and gaining comfort in the water. Children get better at swimming as they age and get stronger, especially if they regularly attend swim lessons or swim practices. Each child will be given individual instruction at their own pace. 

If my child misses a lesson, can they have a make-up lesson?

Our pool is scheduled to maximize community and Cuesta College student usage; we are unable to offer make-up lessons for unplanned absences. Class sizes are set so that each child may receive maximal individual attention, and we do not allow students to switch or make up a missed lesson in another class. We may reschedule or prorate lessons if they are cancelled for College programs. 

Can I register at the pool, or sign up for lessons on the day-of?

Walk-In/day-of registration is accepted at the pool for current sessions only, but is discouraged as there are no guarantees: the class you are trying to join may already be full or cancelled due to low enrollment. Please register before our registration deadline of Wednesday the week before, at 2pm. 

How will I know if my child is ready for the next level? What if they're already signed up for the same level, but are told to move up to the next? 

We assess all children on the first day of lessons to ensure placement in a group appropriate to their age and ability. We'll reassess them towards the end of each session and fill out a Report Card so you have an idea of their progress. If it turns out they are in fact ready to move up, we will do our best to transfer them into an appropriate level that fits your schedule - but please know that no guarantees are made. 

Additional notes

• Please check the class descriptions carefully. If your child is enrolled in the wrong level, you are not guaranteed a spot in a different level. The Aquatics Lead will attempt to re-schedule your child however other suitable classes may already be full.
• We do our best to accommodate your needs as a parent. Early registration is advised, especially if you are trying to coordinate multiple children at the same time. These classes fill up quickly. Registration is processed on a first-come, first-serve basis.
• Swim Diapers are required for all children 3 years and younger or any child who is not potty-trained. Due to Health Department regulations, diaper changes are not allowed on the pool deck. Please use the locker rooms or restrooms on campus prior to arriving on the deck (changing tables are located in the restrooms attached to the gym lobby).