Having grown up in Florida, I’ve spent a lot of time around the water. Whether it’s at a pool, the beach, a water park or even just in the bath, water is literally everywhere you look.
When I was pregnant with Enzo, I knew right away that I wanted him to learn how to swim at an early age. Not only do we spend a lot of time at our community pool, but we also like to go to the beach. My in-laws have a pool as well, so water safety is definitely always at the forefront of my mind.
*This is a sponsored post, but all opinions are my own*
I had heard about Aqua-Tots Swim School in Sarasota and after doing some research and speaking with the owner, I wanted to get Enzo involved as soon as possible. What I didn’t realize was that babies as young as four months old could be enrolled in swim lessons! We ended up waiting until Enzo was around six months old and I can truly say he’s loved it since the very beginning. The instructors are so personable and friendly, and they really care about your kiddo as if they were their own.
Enzo has been swimming at Aqua-Tots since April and it’s been so exciting watching him develop different skills and getting more comfortable in the water. As someone who has anxiety about literally EVERYTHING, knowing Enzo is learning to become a safe and confident swimmer gives me so much peace of mind. After all, according to the National Institute of Health, consistency in formal swim lessons can reduce the risk of drowning by 88 percent among children ages one to four.
I know a lot of people are interested in swimming lessons for their children, but may be a little apprehensive or just have questions. I’ve highlighted some frequently asked questions in the blog below to help ease your mind about getting started!
Will my child go underwater?
The short answer is yes! Aqua-Tots is a pro-submersion school, meaning your child will learn to safely swim and that means going underwater. But don’t worry! It’s nothing like those crazy videos you’ve seen where they throw a child in the pool. The instructors at Aqua-Tots work with your child to teach them how to safely go under the water.
I’m worried my child will cry. Is that normal?
Definitely! It takes time to adjust to the water and swimming lessons are a new experience. Some kids are genuinely afraid of the water and they take longer to overcome and adjust. With time, they’ll be enjoying the water with no more tears!
How many students are in a class?
In order to keep a safe and social environment, Aqua-Tots limits the class size to four students with one instructor.
How long are lessons?
30 minutes.
What training do the instructors go through/receive? All Aqua-Tots Instructors have completed over 40 hours of intensive in-classroom, in-water training and are First Aid and CPR certified. Additional training includes written and in-water exams, and instructors continue to be evaluated regularly and participate in monthly training sessions.
How much do lessons cost?
Prices vary by location, but as of July 1, 2023, prices at the Sarasota location start as low as $112 per month for one group lesson per week. Aqua-Tots also offers semi-private and private lessons, as well as up to four lessons per week. They also offer discounts for military, healthcare, first responders and teachers!
What happens if my child misses a lesson or I need to cancel last-minute?
If you need to cancel a lesson, you can either use the iOS app prior to your lesson or call Aqua-Tots. You’ll then be issued a make-up lesson to your account for future use.
If you’re interested in learning more about Aqua-Tots in Sarasota, I highly recommend stopping by to do a tour. While you’re there, you can ask any additional questions you may have, and it’s great to see the space before you sign up. Don’t forget to tell them Kate and Enzo sent you!