What age should I start my child in swim lessons?
The earlier you start, the more comfortable your child will be in the pool. When children are exposed early to being in the water, they will understand the properties of water, and the more naturally learning swimming techniques will come. We recommend starting swim lessons before the age of 2. The youngest age we accept for swim lessons is 6 months old, in accordance with the American Red Cross. Children 2.5 and under will participate in classes with a parent or guardian, providing a safe and comfortable environment for beginning their swimming journey.
Of course, it is never too late to start. Swimming is a life skill that is important for all to learn. We accommodate beginners of all ages, grouped in classes based on age so older swimmers will not have to feel embarrassed or uncomfortable. Our age groups are 6 months - 2.5 years old, 2.5 - 5 years old, 5 - 8 years old, 8 - 12 years old, and 12 - 15 years old.
What age groups do you teach?
We teach children from 6 months old to 15 years old. Age groups are separated as follows: Seahorse 6 months - 2.5 years old, Guppies 2.5 - 5 years old, Dolphins 5 - 8 years old, Sharks 8 - 12 years old, and Sea Lions 12 - 15 years old.
Some of our locations offer Swim Classes for Adults ranging from the inexperienced to the advanced swimmers. Please contact your nearest Five Star Swim School directly - class availability will vary by location.
Do you offer Private Lessons?
At Five Star Swim School, we specialize in small group lessons with a 3:1 ratio. We feel that small groups are the best way for students to learn because they get a good amount of one-to-one attention but also have the opportunity to learn from their peers. A small group setting is ideal for many children, however, we understand that sometimes private lessons are necessary. We accommodate a limited number of private swim lessons in each location. Please contact your nearest Five Star Swim School directly - class availability will vary by location.
How can I register for Swim Lessons?
You can complete the online Pre-Registration Form (no payment is required on the form), or you can call or email your local Five Star Swim School directly.
What is a Trial Class?
A trial class is your first step in the registration process, and it is our regular 30-minute swim lesson. This will allow you to see our facility and how our lessons are conducted. Our office staff can assist you in scheduling your trial class in person or over the phone/email. After your lesson, we will be able to give you feedback regarding your child's skills and what Level they can enroll for as well as go over scheduling options.
Is a Trial Class required for every age group?
We recommend that all new students take a trial class prior to enrollment. If you cannot or do not want to take a trial class, you can waive your right to do it.
What are your classes like?
All of our classes are taught in our indoor, heated swimming pool and are 30 min long. Our group classes are separated by age and skill level so that each student can work on the skills pertaining to their ability alongside peers of similar age. Our group classes have a 3:1 ratio. Parent and child classes have a 6:1 ratio.
Is 30 min enough for a Swim Class?
Our 30-minute lessons are just the right amount of time to keep your child fully engaged and working on swim skills. Our instructors fill those 30 minutes with lots of swimming drills, no matter what level your child is at.
How long will it take to teach my child how to swim?
The answer to this question is very complex. The speed at which children learn (not just swimming, but any life skill) depends on the individual. Learning to swim takes a great deal of coordination and will depend on things such as muscle strength, ability to listen and follow directions, comfort level, and so on. Like anything else your child learns - the more they practice, the more they will progress.
Can I have a makeup class if my child misses a class?
Yes, we offer up to 12 make-up classes per year for students who do classes once a week. Twice a week lesson students can use up to 24 make-up classes per year, and three times a week are allotted 36 make-ups per year.
We understand that students will inevitably miss swimming classes due to illness, injury, vacations, and interference from other family activities. This is why we have this generous makeup policy.
When your scheduled class falls on a holiday or closed date, an excused makeup is noted on your account. Excused makeups do not count towards your makeup limit.
To schedule a makeup class, please call, email, or stop by the front desk.
Is the temperature of the water safe for babies?
The ideal temperature for infant swimming is between 85 - 92 degrees. We keep our pool at 90 degrees to ensure comfortable water for babies and parents.
Do I have to go to the pool with my child?
Only for Seahorse Classes (Level 1 and Level 2) for 6 months to 2.5 y.o a parent or other responsible adult will be in the water with a child. Please note that no more than one adult per child may go in the water.
Should I feed my child before the lesson?
Please do not feed your child less than 1 hour before swimming to allow time to digest. Children will likely be hungry after their lesson; it is smart to be prepared with a snack and drink. Please, no food on the pool deck.
What is your swim diaper policy?
All children who are not potty trained must wear a swim diaper. In addition, the child should wear a bathing suit over the swim diaper. In case you forgot your child’s diaper, please contact the front desk prior to getting in the pool.
What if my child cries?
If your child cries, it is essential to stay calm, acknowledge their fear, and reassure them that they are safe. Usually, after the first few lessons, the child will become comfortable in the environment and enjoy swim lessons. It is advised to continue bringing your child to swim lessons, even if they cry. Delaying or discontinuing the lessons will reinforce the child’s fear, making it harder to overcome as the child grows up.
Where can I change my child after class?
We have fully equipped locker rooms with changing stations in both the men’s and women’s. We also have a private changing room. There shall be no changing of clothes or diapers on the pool deck out of courtesy for all patrons, as well as mandated by the Board of Health.
What will we need for swim lessons?
The type of swimwear you choose and what you are most comfortable with is up to you. As students progress to higher skill levels, we recommend jammers for boys and one-piece racing suits for girls. We require goggles for students over the age of 2.5 - we do not allow diving masks (which cover the nose and eyes). For students with long hair, we require hair to be tied back. Swim caps are encouraged but not required.
What is the cost of Swim Lessons?
We have options to enroll for one, two, or three lessons per week, and the prices vary based on location. Contact your local Five Star Swim School to get all the details on our tuition prices.
What is Open Swim?
Open Swim at Five Star Swim School is a family-friendly opportunity for swimming, exercise, and relaxation in our indoor pools. Facilities include swimming equipment, locker rooms with showers, and a lifeguard on duty. Open Swim is only available at certain locations, and the schedule and price varies. Click here for details.
Where is Five Star Swim School located?
Five Star Swim School has eight locations in New Jersey and one in Pennsylvania. Click here to find your nearest one.
Do you offer sibling discounts?
Yes, we offer a 10% sibling discount for immediate family members. This discount will be calculated automatically during your enrollment.
What is the Refer a Friend Program?
When you refer a friend to enroll in our swim classes, you'll receive a special bonus: one free swim lesson. Additionally, your referred friend will enjoy the benefit of free registration for the first year when they enroll for swim classes.
Can I rent a pool at Five Star Swim School?
Yes, you can. Click here to find more details about our rental process and fill out the form.
Can I have a child’s Birthday Party at Five Star Swim School?
Yes, you can have a child's Birthday Party only at specific locations. Click Here to find more details about our Birthday Party Packages.
Why must I give a 30-day notice before withdrawing from a class?
We require withdrawal notice before the 1st day of what you would like to be your final month of swim classes. In some cases, this is more or less than 30 days.
We require this notice so that your card on file is not charged for your final month. Your deposit, paid at the time of enrollment, will then be applied to your final month of swim lessons.
We understand that sometimes circumstances will change more suddenly. Giving sudden notice of your withdrawal is ok, too. You will be given the option to save your deposit on file for return to swim lessons in the future or use it for other services. We do not grant refunds for your final month deposit.
Cancellation Policy - withdrawal of the class?
In order to cancel your swim lessons, you must notify us in writing via email. Verbal notice of intent to withdraw will not be recognized. We must receive your email before the first of the month, prior to monthly tuition charges, for the withdrawal to be processed.
Once we receive your intent to withdraw, no further tuition charges will be billed, and you will be given the opportunity to finish the lessons for which you have paid. This is also your final chance to make up any lessons you have missed. Missed classes that are not made up after your final month of lessons are null and void.
What if I join in the middle of the month?
Yes, you can absolutely join in the middle of a month. Students join swim lessons all throughout the year. When you join in the middle of a month, the tuition is pro-rated based on how many lessons are left. You will then pick up with regular tuition billing on the first of the next month.
