Frequently Asked Questions

How do I pay for lessons, and when is payment due?
Payment is due at each lesson through Zelle, Venmo, cash, or checks.
 

Do you charge for an evaluation?
No, swim evaluations are free. This is an excellent opportunity for me to meet the swimmer and family, and you to meet me.   Through the evaluation, I can suggest the most promising instructional plan to mee the student's needs.
 

Do you offer a discount for siblings?
Yes. I offer special sibling pricing. This discount applies if the lessons run directly before or after each other.
 

What happens if I need to cancel a lesson?
A lot of work goes into scheduling. Please provide as much notice as possible if you or your child cannot attend.

What areas do you serve?
I currently serve Boca Grande, East Englewood, Rotonda West, Gulf Cove, South Gulf Cove, and the surrounding areas.
 

If I am not in your listed service area, would you consider coming out to me?
Please contact me directly to discuss your location! If you have multiple swimmers or can coordinate with neighbors to secure multiple back-to-back lessons, I can often make arrangements to travel outside my standard zone.
 

What happens if I don't have my own pool?
A private backyard pool is not required! A neighbor's pool or a gated community pool can work perfectly, provided that the location explicitly allows outside private instruction.
 

How often are lessons held, and what days are available? 
Lessons can be scheduled once a week or more frequently depending on your goals. I offer lessons on weekdays and even on weekends.
 

What are your specific hours, and when will you be in my area?
Because I build my schedule around real-time demands, my hours are constantly evolving. I schedule lessons by geographic zones to stay in the same area on designated days and to keep my rates as low as possible.  Please contact me directly to find out when I will next be in your neighborhood.

How many lessons are needed?
There is no set number of lessons. Rather, goals and the student's improvement guide this question. True water safety consists of multiple layers of protection and skill development. My benchmark for true water safety is the ability to swim 25 yards with proper technique and controlled breathing. This comprehensive safety training includes floating and recovery skills, body awareness, confidence above and below the water, sculling, and treading water.
 

Does the parent need to stay poolside during independent lessons?
It is entirely your decision. Many children have better focus and fewer distractions when parents are out of view. I support whatever choice is in the best interest of your child and the desire of the parents.
 

Are swimmers allowed to wear goggles?
Yes, goggles are very useful for learning technique. However, swimmers must remain confident in the water without relying on googles. During water life-skills training googles may occasionally be excluded to support a student's confidence in the water.

What temperature should the pool be for lessons?
Ideally, the pool should have a minimum temperature of 84 degrees. This temperature insures comfort, particularly for younger or less experienced swimmers.
 

What happens if the weather forecast predicts rain or storms?
Lessons will continue during light rain. If heavy rain or storms occur, I will make the decision to cancel. A rescheduled lesson will be offered whenever possible.  Safety is my number one priority.