La Petite Baleen Swim School

At La Petite Baleen, we have designed our curriculum around an ongoing, once a week lesson. Our goal is that our students own their abilities and that they eventually become second nature to them. Like piano lessons or learning a second language, when practiced over the long run, the skill is performed more naturally and is mastered more effectively. My child has hit a plateau, what can I do to help? Plateaus are common, especially when a child faces a hurdle that is especially difficult for them (i.e. taking off fins, learning strokes, etc.). Our teachers are sensitive to these issues and are trained to motivate and guide swimmers though these peaks and valleys. As a parent, keeping the line of communication with your child's teacher open is crucial to overcoming these plateaus. Fill out a "Parent-Teacher Communication Form" and request a phone conference with your teacher. The Deck Support is also a great resource. When will my child be "Drown-proofed"? La Petite Baleen believes that there is no such thing as being "Drown-proofed". We teach our students how to love and respect the water, and that they can never swim alone. In fact, adults should never swim alone either! How long will it take my child to learn how to swim? The answer to this question is dependant upon the definition of "how to swim". Most of our families stay with us until their child earns their Gold Ribbon, but some choose to leave after the Red or White Ribbons, before learning the strokes. Regardless of what the final goal may be, every child learns at his or her own pace, thus it is impossible to determine how long it will take a given child to earn ribbons. What is a Deck Support? A Deck Support is the staff member who oversees classes on any given shift. They are a wonderful resource if you have questions about your child's progress, and can serve as a liason for your child's teacher. What if my child is sick? If your child is showing flu-like symptoms, has a fever or any stomach or digestion problems, they are too sick for swim class. Please note: La Petite Baleen does not offer Make-Ups for missed lessons. How do I contact my child's teacher? Due to the nature of our class schedule, teachers are unable to converse with parents before or after a lesson. However, by filling out a "Parent-Teacher Communication Form" at the front desk, parents can request a phone conference with your teacher or a written progress report. What if my child cries or is afraid? Our teachers are trained to deal with even the most fearful swimmer. We even have extra teachers on hand at all times to jump in if need be. We have many toys, songs and games especially created for fearful swimmers. If you need help getting your child into the pool, ask our staff for assistance; we will gladly get your child in the water and swimming happily in no time! Why doesn't LPB teach blowing bubbles? La Petite Baleen does not teach blowing bubbles in the early stages of our program. We are more concerned about breath control, bouyancy and building lung capacity. By teaching children to hold their breath using "Balloon Faces", they can stay submerged for longer periods of time. Additionally, a Balloon Face prevents water from entering the nose and sinuses. Once a child has earned their White Ribbon, "blended breathing" is introduced as a form of blowing bubbles. What should I bring to swim class? We provide most of the equipment required for swimming class, including fins, goggles and learning toys. All you need to bring is a swimsuit and towel (children under the age of three must wear a snug fitting, re-usable swim diaper). If you wish to bring your own goggles, be sure to write your child's name on them in permanent marker.