I'm a lifeguard and would like to teach swim lessons because I'm currently getting paid a little over minimum wage but swim lessons run about $5 for every session, 30 minutes. I was a competitive swimmer for 4 years and now I just swim at lesuire but have never taught others before, I think its something I would really enjoy, but eventhough I'm a good swimmer myself, I'm not really certified to teach anyone else. If anyone out there teaches swim lessons, I thought maybe you could give me some pointers on what to do, what not to do. Thanks, Amber
Parents
Former Member
Amber - You should get certified. Experience as a swimmer doesn't make you a good instructor, teacher or coach. It helps, don't get me wrong, but teaching is also a skill. Just as your previous swim coaches helped you refine your skills as a swimmer, a Red Cross or YMCA course will help you develop teaching skills.
Here are a couple of more reasons to become certified. A certified instructor can charge more than a non-certifed instructor.
A certified instructor will get more students. If you had to choose between two mechanics, one "certified" and the other not - who would get your business?
Call the Red Cross - They will tell you how much it costs. In many places there is a definite shortage of Certified guards and instructors so classes are offered at a reduced cost or they are subsidized. You should also call your local YMCA. The Y also offers courses and a certification program. I have known YMCA's that will give you the course and then employ you for the summer as a summer camp guard or instructor.
Good luck - make some calls. It will be worth your time!!
Michael
Amber - You should get certified. Experience as a swimmer doesn't make you a good instructor, teacher or coach. It helps, don't get me wrong, but teaching is also a skill. Just as your previous swim coaches helped you refine your skills as a swimmer, a Red Cross or YMCA course will help you develop teaching skills.
Here are a couple of more reasons to become certified. A certified instructor can charge more than a non-certifed instructor.
A certified instructor will get more students. If you had to choose between two mechanics, one "certified" and the other not - who would get your business?
Call the Red Cross - They will tell you how much it costs. In many places there is a definite shortage of Certified guards and instructors so classes are offered at a reduced cost or they are subsidized. You should also call your local YMCA. The Y also offers courses and a certification program. I have known YMCA's that will give you the course and then employ you for the summer as a summer camp guard or instructor.
Good luck - make some calls. It will be worth your time!!
Michael
