Swim Academy 2018
Our Swim Academy is uniquely designed to provide aquatic instruction and training from infant beginner to seasoned swim team member, triathlete or surf swimmer!
Our Summer Learn-To–Swim Program is structured to provide a foundation in water safety education and swimming technique for all ages and abilities! Our ascending levels provide an educational track which will prepare the junior student for transitioning into our aquatic center Junior Lifeguard program or to the Panama City Swim Team Summer Splash advanced lessons.
Our Water Safety Camps/ Classes offer certification opportunities in surf & pool Junior Lifeguarding, American Red Cross Lifeguard Training and USLA Surf Rescue Training among other seasonal camps. These classes generally accommodate ages 9 and up.
Learn-To-Swim
How do I register and pay for my child’s lessons?
We accept cash or credit card payments and encourage in-person registrations at the ticket office. All registrations must be paid in full to reserve placement on the class roster. Ticket Office/Registration info: 850-236-2206
May we register for multiple sessions at one time?
Yes! Our level 1 and 2 classes fill up quickly so we encourage parents to register and pay for all desired sessions as soon as possible. We try to accommodate currently registered students who desire to add another swim session, however, we cannot guarantee placement in following sessions.
If my child misses a class, may I schedule a make-up lesson?
We schedule and fill classes in advance, and because we are committed to keeping class sizes small for optimum learning, individual make-ups cannot be permitted. Group make-ups will be scheduled in the event of inclement weather, mechanical issues or the occasional special event that might conflict with class.
Can I get a refund if I decide to cancel after registering?
We have a no-refund policy; however, we will work with families to provide other lesson options that may be more accommodating.
What should we bring to swim lessons?
Each student needs a well-fitting swim suit, towel and some warm clothes to wrap up in after class. Children who are not completely potty trained are required to wear a snug fitting swim diaper. No goggles or floatation vests/bubbles will be permitted in beginner levels.
Does my child need a swim cap or goggles?
No swim cap is required but it can improve your child’s swim experience and education by keeping long and heavy hair up and out of their face and mouth as they will be working on rhythmic breathing and head rotation. Having your child’s long hair in a cap or at least in a tight ponytail is strongly recommended.
Should a parent expect to be in the water with his/her child during lessons?
All family members will be asked to sit on the observation deck during level 1-3 classes. Only the instructors will be in the water with the students. Parent-Child classes will require at least 1 parent in the water working with his/her child. The instructor acts as facilitator for the class and the parent and child will interact together as part of the larger group. If both parents have the ability to participate together or interchangeably with the child, we strongly encourage this to enhance the child’s experience.
How do private lessons differ from group lessons?
Private lessons afford a bit more scheduling flexibility. You will register for a package of 4 – 45 minute lessons within the time frame of the Group Class sessions. You must schedule all 4 lessons within that
2-week session. Once your form is submitted, you will be contacted by your assigned instructor to set days and times that are convenient for you based on the hours designated for private instruction. (Stated on the Swim Academy information sheet.)
Can my 2 children take private lessons together?
Yes, as long as both children are old enough to be without the parent’s physical assistance. No more than 2 students may be a part of a 4 – 45 minute private lesson package. The instructor may teach the students together or divide the total time between the students.
What if my child cries or is afraid?
It is very common for a child to be apprehensive or afraid and cry when beginning something new. Our instructors are trained to handle the most fearful of students and our Crew Chiefs and lead instructors are always there to assist if necessary. Consistency, reassurance and praise are paramount to your child’s progress! It is important for the instructors to build a rapport and trust with each child during each lesson without the distraction or interference of family members. Don’t worry! We will have your child feeling empowered and happy in no time! The family’s role is to be your child’s cheerleader offering hugs, kisses and atta-boys after each lesson!
How do I transition my child from level 3 to the PCST Summer Splashes program?
Go to www.panamacityswimteam.com for all information on all PCST summer programming. On the right hand side of the main page, click the “Swim Lessons” tab for their schedule and registration directions.
Our Swim Academy is uniquely designed to provide aquatic instruction and training from infant beginner to seasoned swim team member, triathlete or surf swimmer!
Our Summer Learn-To–Swim Program is structured to provide a foundation in water safety education and swimming technique for all ages and abilities! Our ascending levels provide an educational track which will prepare the junior student for transitioning into our aquatic center Junior Lifeguard program or to the Panama City Swim Team Summer Splash advanced lessons.
Our Water Safety Camps/ Classes offer certification opportunities in surf & pool Junior Lifeguarding, American Red Cross Lifeguard Training and USLA Surf Rescue Training among other seasonal camps. These classes generally accommodate ages 9 and up.
Learn-To-Swim
How do I register and pay for my child’s lessons?
We accept cash or credit card payments and encourage in-person registrations at the ticket office. All registrations must be paid in full to reserve placement on the class roster. Ticket Office/Registration info: 850-236-2206
May we register for multiple sessions at one time?
Yes! Our level 1 and 2 classes fill up quickly so we encourage parents to register and pay for all desired sessions as soon as possible. We try to accommodate currently registered students who desire to add another swim session, however, we cannot guarantee placement in following sessions.
If my child misses a class, may I schedule a make-up lesson?
We schedule and fill classes in advance, and because we are committed to keeping class sizes small for optimum learning, individual make-ups cannot be permitted. Group make-ups will be scheduled in the event of inclement weather, mechanical issues or the occasional special event that might conflict with class.
Can I get a refund if I decide to cancel after registering?
We have a no-refund policy; however, we will work with families to provide other lesson options that may be more accommodating.
What should we bring to swim lessons?
Each student needs a well-fitting swim suit, towel and some warm clothes to wrap up in after class. Children who are not completely potty trained are required to wear a snug fitting swim diaper. No goggles or floatation vests/bubbles will be permitted in beginner levels.
Does my child need a swim cap or goggles?
No swim cap is required but it can improve your child’s swim experience and education by keeping long and heavy hair up and out of their face and mouth as they will be working on rhythmic breathing and head rotation. Having your child’s long hair in a cap or at least in a tight ponytail is strongly recommended.
Should a parent expect to be in the water with his/her child during lessons?
All family members will be asked to sit on the observation deck during level 1-3 classes. Only the instructors will be in the water with the students. Parent-Child classes will require at least 1 parent in the water working with his/her child. The instructor acts as facilitator for the class and the parent and child will interact together as part of the larger group. If both parents have the ability to participate together or interchangeably with the child, we strongly encourage this to enhance the child’s experience.
How do private lessons differ from group lessons?
Private lessons afford a bit more scheduling flexibility. You will register for a package of 4 – 45 minute lessons within the time frame of the Group Class sessions. You must schedule all 4 lessons within that
2-week session. Once your form is submitted, you will be contacted by your assigned instructor to set days and times that are convenient for you based on the hours designated for private instruction. (Stated on the Swim Academy information sheet.)
Can my 2 children take private lessons together?
Yes, as long as both children are old enough to be without the parent’s physical assistance. No more than 2 students may be a part of a 4 – 45 minute private lesson package. The instructor may teach the students together or divide the total time between the students.
What if my child cries or is afraid?
It is very common for a child to be apprehensive or afraid and cry when beginning something new. Our instructors are trained to handle the most fearful of students and our Crew Chiefs and lead instructors are always there to assist if necessary. Consistency, reassurance and praise are paramount to your child’s progress! It is important for the instructors to build a rapport and trust with each child during each lesson without the distraction or interference of family members. Don’t worry! We will have your child feeling empowered and happy in no time! The family’s role is to be your child’s cheerleader offering hugs, kisses and atta-boys after each lesson!
How do I transition my child from level 3 to the PCST Summer Splashes program?
Go to www.panamacityswimteam.com for all information on all PCST summer programming. On the right hand side of the main page, click the “Swim Lessons” tab for their schedule and registration directions.