Swimming lessons
for kids and adults
at Osher Marin JCC

1. How do I know what level to register my child?

Choose the level that you feel most fits your child’s skill level. You are also welcome to give us a call and we can ask you questions pertaining to each level to aid you in the process of choosing. You may also bring your child in for an assessment at a time that fits both parties.

2. I guessed the level I think is appropriate for my child, but what happens if I was wrong? Or… I signed my child up for multiple sessions throughout the summer; what if my child progresses more quickly or slowly than I anticipated?

We make every effort to evaluate your child on the first day of class and move him/ her up or down as needed. If there is no space at that time to move them to the appropriate level we will work with you to either move to a different time or day, or we will offer a credit if accommodations cannot be made.

3. Should I sign my child up for private swim lessons? 

This depends on your child. Private swim lessons are great for young children overcoming fear of the water who may not be ready for a group lesson, or more advanced swimmers who would like to work on technique, swimmers who are older or younger than the recommended age range of the group lesson, or anyone who thrives in a one-on-one learning environment.

4. What do I need to bring to swim lessons? 

Please ensure your child is wearing a well-fitting, comfortable swimsuit and goggles. Don’t forget a towel or robe and some flip-flops for before and after the lesson. Swimmers with long hair should tie their hair back or wear a swim cap. A snack 30 or more minutes before class is also recommended.

5. What do I do if I loved my child’s swim lesson instructor and would like to have him or her again?

Please sign up for another session. If the instructor is teaching that session and is available at the time of your lesson we will try to accommodate your request. Please note, we cannot guarantee you will be placed with the instructor of your choice. Remember, all of our instructors are great. Different teaching styles can sometimes help swimmers improve.

6. What if my child cries or is afraid? 

Overcoming fear is part of swim lessons. Our swim instruction staff and pool managers are knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and very kid-friendly. If you need help encouraging your child into the pool ask our staff for assistance. Instructors will encourage your child to join the class in a manner that’s responsive to his/her needs. Sometimes tears can have their root not in fear but in separation anxiety. This is part of the learning process as well. If you feel your child may be experiencing separation anxiety rather than fear of the water it is best to keep your distance during the lesson. Removing yourself from the child’s sight during the lesson may be required in certain situations. In such cases, the child will usually calm down when the parent is out of view and be able to focus and rely on the teacher for instruction and help.

7. What if my child is sick? 

If your child has a fever or stomach or digestion problems please keep him/her home. Do not bring your sick child to a lesson.

8. Do you offer make-ups or credits for missed classes? 

We do not offer refunds, credits, or make-ups for missed classes. If your child is unable to attend, we look forward to seeing your child at his/her next scheduled lesson. Consistency is important. Please do your best to regularly bring your child to swim lessons. If we need to cancel a class we will offer credits as appropriate.

9. What should my child wear? 

We recommend a full swimsuit and goggles. Swim caps are great for children with long hair.

10. How are lessons scheduled? 

Normally swim lessons are either scheduled online or through our swim office.

11. Cancellation policy for Private Swim Lessons? 

For private swim lessons, there is a 48-hour cancellation policy to reschedule the swim credit. Please email: if you need to cancel a private lesson: swimlessons@marinjcc.org.