Open Swim
We offer swim classes for infants, kids, teenagers, and adults. Find a class that’s right for your children and family.
Learn to Swim at the YMCA Southcoast
YMCA Southcoast offers swim lesson programs for all ages, designed to build water confidence, safety skills, and swimming proficiency in a supportive environment. Lessons are divided into stages based on age and developmental milestones, starting with Parent & Child classes (ages 6 months–3 years) in Water Discovery and Water Exploration, where parents help little ones get comfortable in the water. Preschool lessons (ages 3–5) and School Age lessons (ages 5–12) progress through Water Acclimation, Movement, Stamina, and Stroke Introduction to Stroke Development and Stroke Mechanics, focusing on swimming skills, safety techniques, and proper stroke form. Teens and adults (ages 12+) can join beginner through advanced stages to build or refine their swimming ability and learn all major strokes. From first-time water exploration to mastering competitive techniques, YMCA Southcoast swim lessons foster confidence, safety, and a lifelong love of swimming.
Available at these Locations:
Not sure what lesson you should register your child for?
Use our Swim Lesson Selector to find the best lesson for your child.
Parent and Child
Ages: 6 mos-3 years
We offer swim classes for infants, kids, teenagers, and adults. Choose from weekday, evening, and weekend classes all year long.
- Stage A/B Water Discovery/Water Exploration, Age 6 mos-3 years
- Stage C – New Bedford YMCA only Age 2-5
Preschool Child
Ages: 3-5 years
- Stage C – New Bedford YMCA only Age 2-5
- Stage 1 Water Acclimation, Age 3-5
- Stage 2 Water Movement, Age 3-5
- Stage 3 Water Stamina, Age 3-5
- Stage 4 Stroke Introduction, Age 3-5
Youth
Ages: 6-14 years
Build skills that save lives. From Lifeguarding and Swim Instructor training to CPR, First Aid, and BLS certifications, the YMCA offers trusted courses that prepare you to lead, respond, and make a difference.
- Stage 1 Water Acclimation
- Stage 2 Water Movement
- Stage 3 Water Stamina
- Stage 4 Stroke Introduction
- Stage 5 Stroke Development
- Stage 6 Stroke Mechanics
- Aquatic Conditioning
Teen & Adult
Ages: 15+ years
Drop in to one of our pools for lap swim, family swim, or independent water exercise. Check pool schedules to find a time that works for you and your family.
- Beginner
- Intermediate
- Aquatic Conditioning
Open Swim Frequently Asked Questions
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Aquatics Directors
Our certified aquatics team is committed to making every swimmer’s experience safe, skill-building, and welcoming. If you have questions about lessons, schedules, level placement, private instruction, or pool availability, please contact one the Aquatics Directors listed below.