YMCA of Long Island Launches New Swim Program

YMCA of Long Island's new swim lessons program is focused on safety, swim basics, and drowning prevention.

The program is scheduled to start Sept. 10 at all six locations and will focus on different swim stages, such as swim starters, swim basics, and swim strokes. The lessons, for children and adults, will cover safety skills, endurance, and stroke development. The new program is much more specific, so one knows the exact skills and lessons that need to be learned.

“A big key in our new program is safety and being able to be water conscious and have the basic swimming skills. We do that by working on key benchmark skills, called 'swim-float-swim' and 'jump, push, turn, grab,'" says Tracie Busch, aquatics director at the Patchogue Family YMCA. "A big piece of this is that we are trying to be preventative. We are trying to make sure that everybody knows the preventative measures, such as asking permission."

The YMCA is a nonprofit, community-based organization working to improve lives through programs and services by promoting healthy living, youth development, and social responsibility. There are six locations on Long Island (in East Hampton, Glen Cove, Bay Shore, Huntington, Patchogue, and Holtsville) and programs for all ages to participate in. The YMCA of Long Island’s mission is to create stronger communities and make Long Island a better place to work, enjoy, and live. 

“We get invested with the people who come to our Y. It’s not just about doing a lesson and sending them on their way. It’s about really getting them to build up, become safe around water, getting into a healthy living lifestyle, and becoming a part of our YMCA,” Busch says.

Registration for the new swim lessons program begins Aug. 20 for the Fall 1 Session.

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Main image: The new aquatics program at YMCA of Long Island is focused on safety, swim basics, and drowning prevention.
Courtesy YMCA of Long Island