About
Over 40 years experience in all aspects of Aquatic Programming from Pre/Postnatal Water Exercise, Post Rehab/Therapy Programs, Swimming lessons for ages 6 months through senior adult, adapted aquatics and training instructors/aquatic personnel. Have been certified through Red Cross, YMCA, United States Water Fitness Association, Arthritis Association, Aquatic Exercise Assn., National Swim School Association, National Pool and Spa Assn., Ellis Lifeguard Program Instructor, Red Cross Instructor for Lifeguarding/First Aid/CPR/O2 Administration/AED.
I love watching the reactions when people find out that learning to swim the strokes properly is easier than they thought. The little kids are so much fun as they get to be great swimmers who are doing the strokes and not just "surviving". I teach group lessons with ALL the students in the water for the ENTIRE class period...not sitting on the side watching, waiting, and wasting time and money.
Highlights
Reviews
Dominic S.
Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I set up a meeting to discuss goals/expectations, plan day(s)/time(s) for the classes, check out the aquatic location, evaluate student(s), discuss what will fit your budget.
Do you have a standard pricing system for your lessons? If so, please share the details here.
I am very flexible with my fees. I offer discounts for groups, family, referrals, session scheduling and multi programming. I teach provate, semi-private or groups. Basic pricing is $50/class for privates, $35/person/class for semi-privates, and between $10-$15/class/student for groups. but I am more interested in helping people learn to enjoy and succeed in the water than making a lot of money.
How did you get started teaching?
My mom was one of the first Red Cross Instructor Trainers when the program was standardized in the 1960's. Therefore, from the time I was very young, I have been involved in Aquatics as a participant, demonstrator, helper, aide and instructor. I think I was born teaching. LOL
What types of students have you worked with?
Swimming lessons from age 6 month-senior adults. Aquatic Exercise Programs from Pre natal through Post Therapy. Adapted Aquatics and Rehab/Therapy for Special Needs students, adults and programs (Down Syndrome, Autistic, Cerebral Palsy, Stroke, TBI, Multiple Sclerosis, Muscular Dystrophy, Arthritis, Blind, Deaf, Mobility impaired, Emotional and/or Behavioral challenged through the school system, government agencies and support organizations.
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Meet with the instructor. Be sure your goals/expectations are discussed. Be sure that, as a parent, you always can be in attendance with your child and NEVER let an instructor take your child/baby from you for the swim lessons. The best place for a child is with their parent/guardian. You, the parent, need to learn what and how to teach your child to swim. Infants/toddlers should never be separated from caregivers. A child should not be screaming/crying/fearful when learning to swim. Think about this: Would you hand your child over to the doctor/nurse and wait outside? Why would you do this for "survival'? Also, a child is not "drowned-proofed" anymore than they are "traffic-proofed", "fall-proofed" or "stranger-proofed" by force. Safety, survellience, supervision and barriers.
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
How long has the instructor been doing this? Also, how many different ways (how flexible and adaptable) can the skills be taught and implemented based upon the age, personality, history, past experience(s), cultural, physical conditions/limitations and even behavior of the student. When is the best time of day for the student to be in a receptive mood. Where is the student most comfortable learning? What is the ideal situation for the student and how closely can the instructor meet the expectations/goals?