YMCA Offering Free Swimming Lessons

Those interested in learning to swim for themselves, or with young children who don't know how to swim can stop by the in early April to take advantage of free lessons.

From April 2 to April 6, the Y will be providing free swim lessons, Rebecca Barnes, marketing director at the Eastside YMCA, confirmed.

Different times and days are available for the offerings.

"These free swim lessons are meant for parent's to be able to get their child into the water - after having been out all winter - and either get them readjusted or see what level they are on with swimming," Barnes said.

Learning to swim is a crucial skill, Barnes said, as contact with water is often unavoidable, especially as the weather continues to warm up.

"Swim lessons are a survival skill," Barnes said. "Every child comes into contact with water at some point.  Whether it is at a community pool, back yard pool, lake, river, ocean, etc.  A child needs to have the fundamental skills to be able to help themselves in the water stay safe."

The lessons are offered to children ages six months and older, and classes are divided into ability groups with trained instructors who emphasize personal safety, swimming skills, endurance and positive social skills.

Those interested in the lessons can contact the Eastside YMCA at (864) 292-2790.

"The Y has been called 'America's Favorite Swim Instructor' for over 100 years," Barnes said. "At the Y, not only will you learn how to swim, you'll learn about yourself, about safety and rescue skills, and about water activities you can enjoy for a lifetime."