Melissa Plasencia Swim Lessons
About
I started swimming at 6 yrs old. Like many of my students, I started young and afraid. I was that painfully shy child whom if not my father pushing me, would've never learned to swim on my own. Now, I am 21yrs old, a city lifeguard in the summers, and a YMCA aquatics swimming teacher and lifeguard year round. I love getting to work with (primarily) kids (3+) and help them grow their confidence. Some pick it up quickly while others (like I did) slowly. But nonetheless, small achievements are achievements (and very exciting for me as well). Ha ha!
My job at the Y started a little over 4 yrs ago when I was a junior in high schol and on my high school swim team. I swam competitively for 4 yrs and though not the "naturally" fastest girl, I was and still am known for my form and technique. I've taught very small children, teens, adults, and kids with special needs. I'm currently certified in CPR, FIRST AID and AED.
I would love to work with anyone wanting to swim, whether you're just wanting to start off and gain confidence in the water or already on a team and just in search of some tweaking.
Highlights
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Frequently asked questions
What is your typical process for working with a new student?
I ask what their experience is. Then what their end goal is. Then I ask to see their best swimming. And together we can come up w smaller reachable goals that will help guide them towards that end goal. Together, we can work from there.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
As a certified swimming instructor of the Prospect Park Y, I combine my training from my job with the training I picked up as a competitive swimmer. I also am not opposed to learning myself. I have reached out to fellow co workers and friends and learned some effective tips and tricks for pushing past obstacles when I've felt stuck in the past. I share these ideas and demonstrate for my students anything that I believe will help them progress. For what it's worth, I'm currently studying exercise science.
How did you get started teaching?
The program through which I was taught as a child allowed me to meet a lot of excellent swimmers. One of which I swam with in mini camps during the summer whose mother happened to have taught me on many occasions. The family became acquainted with my own and this individual later contacted my father about a lifeguard course they were offering. I signed up and he then referred me to an old friend of his who worked at the Y which was hiring. It was my first job.
What types of students have you worked with?
Again, I have worked with all people ages 3+. From special needs children to adults. I'm happy to say I've even helped an elderly woman overcome her fear of the water.
Describe a recent event you are fond of.
I have finally gotten my permit a week ago!
What advice would you give a student looking to hire a teacher in your area of expertise?
Do not be afraid to try new things. As cliche as it sounds, swimming isn't possible without letting go of your comfort zone. Just ask my dad who used to try and rip my 6 yr self off the wall when we had to let go and start swimming. Ha ha!
What questions should students think through before talking to teachers about their needs?
What kind of teaching style they perform best with. For example I am more of a visual learner than a sit down and read a while book in an hour and know everything kind if learner. (Some students learn best through watching and copying while others do best being told and then changing the action).
Do they like trying and trying over and over or do they like longer detailed explanations.
Are they shy and need encouragement (don't ask don't tell) or are they the type to speak when they are not sure without a problem.
Do they like doing things on their own, if not do they feel comfortable being guided. (I'll sometimes take my students' arms or legs and move them for them so they can FEEL (on their own body) the way a skill should be performed rather than just shown or told).
Think of any other questions they might have.