Private lessons v. group lessons

As you decide to sign up for swimming lessons, you may have to decide whether to sign up your child in group lessons (3-6 children) or private lessons.  Both are great options.  I'll go over the advantages and disadvantages of each type.

Group lessons

+Usually a less expensive option.
+Typically sign up for a block of lessons (4 to 8 lessons) and the child learns a routine, which can be comforting.
+There are other swimmers about your child's age and ability.  They can have fun and push each other to succeed.
-Less personal attention.  The instructor needs to help each swimmer whether he has mastered a skill or not.
-The groups are organized by ability and the swimmer cannot progress until a certain requirement (i.e. back floating, independent swimming) is met.  They may have to repeat a level and work on skills already mastered.

Private lessons

+More personal attention.  It's just the instructor and the swimmer.
+The pace is set by the swimmer's own progress.
+Sometimes a more flexible schedule.  You can have one or as many classes as desired or needed.
+Swimmers that don't "fit the mold" (i.e. much older than typical skill level, special needs) may be more comfortable working one-on-one
-Typically more expensive.
- Swimmers who need a little social pressure by peers to excel may have a harder time pushing theirselves.

You don't have to commit to one type of swim lessons in a summer.  Your child can complete a few rounds of group lessons, then take a couple private lessons to work on that one difficult skill before proceeding to the next group level.  Sometimes children benefit from a different teaching style or perspective.

Let's make sure our children learn the skills to become safe and confident swimmers!
-Miss Elaine

I have taught both group and private lessons.  Due to family commitments and schedule restrictions,  I have decided to teach only private lessons for the summer of 2014.