My daughter, who just turned 20 months old, is just wrapping up her survival lesson with coach Rachel and she has had a truly incredible experience over the last 6 or so weeks. She fairly scared of getting her head under water, hated getting her head wet, and was brand new to this at first. In just a couple weeks, Rachel gave her the skills and confidence to thrive and accept new challenges. I was continually impressed by Rachel's calm, kind, supportive approach with each kiddo I saw her with - she was always comforting and understanding - yet challenging because she knew each kiddo's limits and abilities. I am so grateful for PhD Swim - every coach seems so encouraging and knowledgeable about both swimming and kids.
We have enrolled in the next stage at PhD Swim and I couldn't be more thrilled. I know my daughter can survive if in a dangerous water situation, which was what was most important to me, but I also know she learned a ton in such a supportive environment along the way.
I'd also like to add that PhD Swim is has been very impressive regarding covid protocols. Every adult - both parents and teachers - remain fully masked every second they are in the room, and kiddos are generally masked unless they are in the pool. The small classes and low number of kiddos/families in there at any time is very reassuring.
Honestly, I initially balked at the price and time commitment - hey, it took 2-3x as long to travel there and back than the lesson itself, and the survival class was 3x a week!! - but I'd do it again in a heartbeat.
Tl;dr: run, don't walk, to PhD Swim! read more