In this episode, we address a common question from John in the UK: "What do I actually need to do to get started?"
Finding Your Starting Point: Resources for New Instructors
I've always assumed that someone starting their own program had gone through an apprenticeship—working at a local pool as a teenager and learning on the job. Most of the content on Swimminglessonsideas.com is designed for two groups: 1) Private instructors who want to hire staff, or 2) Established Aquatic Professionals looking to manage a large staff, like a park district.
While I initially wanted to direct John to the SLI Swim Instructor Training workbook on Amazon—which is awesome and takes you through the 15 essential swim skills we build off of for our <a href="https://www.swimminglessonsideas.com/shop/" title="lesson plans" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">lesson plans</a>—I realized it isn't comprehensive enough for a total beginner. I'm actually working on updating that!
The blog section of swimminglessonsideas.com is full of content, but much of it is designed for people who are already established in the industry. However, I want to point you toward our main resource hubs:
- Swim Lesson Guide: For general instructional advice.Lesson Plans: For structured curriculum ideas.Resources: For the most distilled, actionable content.
Ultimately, this episode is for the starter who has not taught swim lessons before, and who may not have been in a large program but knows how to swim. We are giving you the essentials!
Essentials to Teaching Swim Lessons: Before You Start
Setting up your business requires more than just knowing how to swim! Here is a checklist of logistical items you must consider before your first class:
- Location: Secure access to a pool or body of water.Legal & Financial: Obtain liability insurance and set up a dedicated bank account.Branding & Tech: Establish a website (or dedicated phone number) and scheduling software for registration.Boundaries: Define your availability clearly. Stick to specific days and times. Do not spread yourself thin; if people want lessons, they will work around your clear boundaries.Structure: Determine your lesson duration and whether you will teach in a group or privately.Progression: Develop a clear level structure or progression path. This requires an intimate understanding of where you are going and how you plan to get there.Equipment: Gather necessary toys and props.Policies: Create clear policies for: <ul><li>Make-up lessons?</li><li>Cancellation (by student/parent)?</li><li>Rainy days?</li><li>Lesson duration limits?</li></ul>Logistics: Decide on your lesson type (group vs private) and how you will handle scheduling (by week, day, or session).
Running a Smooth Lesson: During the Session
Once you are in the water, the focus shifts to management and experience. These details ensure safety, professionalism, and fun for everyone:
- Parent Communication: Establish clear rules regarding parent presence (e.g., can they sit poolside? Are they allowed in the water?).Language & Scripts: Decide what language you will use to teach and prepare simple scripts for key instructions.Skill Focus: Have a defined skill focus for each lesson to ensure measurable progress.Fun Breaks: Plan specific times and places for games to keep energy levels high.Behavior Management: Establish clear consequences for misbehavior, ensuring safety is always the priority.Refund Policy: Be ready to communicate your refund policy clearly.Trial Time: Consider offering a short trial lesson to new students.Facility Logistics: Address practical needs like parking, showering facilities, and towel requirements.Attire: Define clear swim suit requirements for both students and staff.