Juneau Pools launches new preschool learn-to-swim program this fall

Juneau, Alaska (KINY) - Juneau Pools is launching Lil’ Swimmers, a new learn-to-swim program for preschool-age swimmers, beginning Oct. 21.

Lil’ Swimmers will use a non-traditional format to teach children ages 3 to 5 basic water skills, with multiple instructors serving as “learning stations” for different skills throughout each class session.

This format provides a streamlined learning process that allows the prioritization of skills not yet mastered.

“We’re excited to offer a program that gives children the opportunity for more varied learning as they’re getting comfortable in the water,” said Aquatics Manager Terra Patterson. “This format makes it easier for kids to spend more time on individual skills that need a little extra work, and it encourages a positive and upbeat environment so our youngest swimmers will feel excited to come to the pool every lesson.”

Children who pass Lil’ Swimmers will have learned the same skills as traditional Preschool Level 1 students and be ready to enroll in Preschool Level 2 lessons.

Lil’ Swimmers Session 1 will take place on Saturdays over seven weeks between Oct. 21 and Dec. 16. (See the full schedule in the registration portal.)

Classes are available in three half-hour time slots: 10:30 a.m., 11:10 a.m., and 11:50 a.m.

Each class has a maximum capacity of 16 swimmers, for a total of 48 available spaces.

Registration opens Thursday, Oct. 12 at 12 p.m.

Register online under the Juneau Pools tab. Classes cost $70 + tax for seven lessons.