Under the direct supervision of the Swim Lessons Manager, Swim Instructor Aides assist certified YMCA Swim Lessons Instructors in providing YMCA Swim Lessons.

Qualifications:

1. Ages 13 and older
2. Significant swimming experience or experience working with children
3. Able to serve as an example during swim lessons and demonstrate water safety competency (see swimming requirements below)
4. Able to commit to either of the following:
   1. Specific programs, such as Water Safety Week or Elementary Lessons. Swim Instructor Aide volunteers will need to register for these specific programs.
   2. Whole sessions, such as Monday & Wednesday or Tuesday & Thursday lessons (4-week sessions), Friday or Saturday lessons (8-week sessions) or Summer AM lessons (Monday-Thursday mornings June, July, & August, 2-week sessions). Swim Instructor Aide Volunteers should sign up under General Interest for this option.

Principal Activities:

• Be prepared for class at least 15 minutes before class start time
• Assist in teaching diverse populations proper swimming techniques as required by the standards of the YMCA
• Ensure participants adhere to all YMCA aquatic safety guidelines and procedures
• Assist YMCA Swim Lessons Instructors in leading games and activities in the water to teach water safety and basic skills
• Encourage and motivate participants and answer participant questions
• Inform supervisor of any issues that need their attention
• Demonstrate YMCA Core Values of Honesty, Caring, Respect, and Responsibility
• Wear uniform when performing volunteer assignment

Swimming Requirements:

Swim 25 yards of each of the following strokes, demonstrating proficiency in at least three:

1. Front Crawl
2. Breaststroke
3. Back Crawl
4. Sidestroke
5. Elementary Backstroke
6. Butterfly

Swim Instructor Aides must also be able to tread water for at least two minutes.

Environment & Hours:

Water temperature may range from 79-85°, depending on the pool. Air temperature ranges from 75-85°. Several classes take place at one time, during open swim or swim team, which can create a loud environment. A swim lesson is usually thirty minutes long, with a five-minute break between classes. General Interest volunteers may have more flexibility for their in-water time, depending on the needs of the program.

Instructor Aide Training

Swim Instructor Aides will be required to complete online training and attend an in-person orientation prior to entering the water with swimmers. Safety is paramount for our volunteers and program participants.