What Big Blue Swim School Is

Big Blue Swim School is a swim instruction program that teaches children and adults to swim through structured lessons and water safety training. The program operates at multiple locations and offers classes organized by age and skill level, from beginners who have never been in the water to swimmers working on competitive techniques.

Big Blue Swim School uses a curriculum-based approach, meaning each class follows a set progression of skills rather than a drop-in model. You enroll your child (or yourself) in a session that runs for a set number of weeks, and instructors track progress through that session and into the next one. This structure lets instructors know what each swimmer has already learned and what comes next.

The school operates year-round at indoor facilities, so weather does not interrupt lessons. Classes run during weekday afternoons, evenings, and weekend mornings to fit different family schedules.

Key Takeaways

  • Big Blue Swim School organizes classes by age and swimming level, not by random grouping, so your child works with others at the same stage.
  • Enrollment is session-based (typically 4 to 8 weeks per session), and you choose the days and times that fit your schedule during that session.
  • Instructors assess your child's skills at the start and place them in the appropriate level, even if you are unsure where they should begin.
  • The school teaches water safety and survival skills alongside stroke technique, with an emphasis on comfort and confidence in the water.
  • You can contact Big Blue Swim School directly to ask about current session dates, pricing, and available class times before you commit to enrollment.

How Classes Are Organized by Age and Level

Big Blue Swim School divides its program into age groups—typically infants and toddlers, preschool, school-age children, and adults—because the teaching approach changes with age. A 2-year-old needs a parent in the water and focuses on water comfort; a 6-year-old can follow verbal instructions and work on basic strokes; an adult learner may have different fears or goals.

Within each age group, classes are further split by skill level. A beginner class might focus on floating, breath control, and getting comfortable with water on the face. An intermediate class works on front crawl and backstroke. An advanced class refines technique and builds endurance. When you first contact the school or arrive for your first class, an instructor will watch your child (or you) in the water for a few minutes to place you in the right level.

This placement system means your child is not held back by stronger swimmers or overwhelmed by advanced skills they are not ready for. If your child progresses quickly, the instructor will recommend moving up mid-session or at the start of the next one.

What Happens During a Typical Lesson

A typical Big Blue Swim School class lasts 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the age group. The instructor starts with a warm-up activity in the water—often a game or movement drill that gets everyone comfortable and focused. For younger children, this might be jumping in, floating on a kickboard, or practicing getting water on their face.

The middle portion of the class focuses on the skill being taught that week. The instructor demonstrates the skill (such as the flutter kick or treading water), then works with each child individually or in small groups while others practice nearby. The instructor gives feedback, adjusts hand position or body alignment, and builds confidence by celebrating progress.

The class usually ends with a fun activity—a relay race, a diving game, or free play—that reinforces what was learned and keeps the experience positive. Parents of very young children stay poolside or in the water; parents of older children typically watch from the deck or a viewing area.

Session Length and How to Enroll

Big Blue Swim School runs sessions that typically last 4 to 8 weeks. Each session has a start date and an end date, and you enroll for one full session at a time. Within that session, you choose which days of the week and what time work for your schedule—for example, Tuesday and Thursday at 4 p.m., or Saturday mornings.

To enroll, contact Big Blue Swim School directly through their website or phone number. You will provide your child's name, age, and any prior swim experience. The school will tell you which sessions are currently open, what class times are available, and the cost for that session. Some locations offer a trial class or observation period so you can see the program before committing.

After you enroll, you will receive information about what to bring (swimsuit, towel, goggles if your child uses them) and any policies about cancellations or make-up classes. Most programs allow you to make up a missed class within the same session if you notify the school in advance.

What Skills Your Child Will Learn

The skills taught at Big Blue Swim School follow a progression that starts with water safety and comfort, then moves to basic strokes and endurance. In the earliest levels, children learn to float on their back and front, hold their breath, and put their face in the water without fear. They also learn to recognize the deep end and understand pool rules.

As children advance, they learn the front crawl (freestyle), backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly. They practice kicking, arm strokes, and breathing patterns separately before putting them together. They also learn survival skills like treading water and how to get out of the water safely if they fall in accidentally.

Older children and adults may work on flip turns, diving, or competitive technique if that is their goal. The school emphasizes that swimming is a life skill, so even advanced classes include water safety and rescue awareness alongside technique work.

Cost and What to Bring

The cost of Big Blue Swim School varies by location, age group, and session length. Pricing is typically per session rather than per class, so you pay one fee upfront for the entire 4 to 8 week session. Some locations offer discounts if you enroll multiple children or sign up for multiple sessions at once.

To find out the current price for your location and age group, contact Big Blue Swim School directly. They can also tell you whether they offer payment plans or whether any local programs help cover swim lesson costs for families who need it.

What to bring: a swimsuit that fits well and allows movement, a towel, and a swim diaper if your child is not yet toilet-trained. Goggles are optional but many children find them helpful. The school provides kickboards and other training tools; you do not need to buy your own.

What to Do If Your Child Is Afraid of Water

Fear of water is common, and Big Blue Swim School instructors are trained to work with anxious children. If your child is nervous, tell the instructor before the first class. The instructor will move slowly, let your child control the pace, and celebrate small wins like touching the water or sitting on the pool edge.

For very young or very fearful children, parent-child classes are often available. You stay in the water with your child, which provides security and lets you help the instructor. As your child gains confidence, the instructor will gradually encourage independence.

Progress may be slower for an anxious child, and that is normal. Pushing too hard can increase fear; patience and small steps work better. If your child is still very distressed after a few classes, talk to the instructor about whether a different class time, a smaller group, or a different approach might help.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to stay in the water with my child?

For infants and toddlers, yes—a parent or caregiver stays in the water as part of the lesson. For preschool and older children, you typically watch from the deck or a viewing area. The instructor will tell you what the expectation is for your child's age group when you enroll.

What if my child misses a class?

Most Big Blue Swim School locations allow you to make up a missed class within the same session if you let them know in advance. Some programs offer a limited number of make-ups per session; ask about the policy when you enroll.

How long does it take to learn to swim?

This varies widely. Some children feel comfortable in the water and learn basic strokes in 2 to 3 sessions; others need more time to build confidence. Consistent attendance (same days each week) helps children progress faster than sporadic lessons. The instructor can give you a realistic timeline based on your child's starting point.

Can adults take lessons at Big Blue Swim School?

Yes, many locations offer adult swim classes. These are taught by the same instructors and follow the same skill progression, but the pace and teaching style are adjusted for adult learners. Contact your local Big Blue Swim School to ask about adult class times.

What if my child has already taken swim lessons elsewhere?

Tell the instructor about your child's prior experience when you enroll. The instructor will assess your child's actual skills during the first class and place them in the appropriate level, regardless of what lessons they have had before. This ensures they are neither bored nor overwhelmed.