06/10/2021
Who are we?
Amanda,
A student at Saint John's University. Obtaining a masters in Criminology. Recently obtained a bachelors in Criminal Justice and Psychology. Has been a lifeguard and swim instructor since 2015. Worked at the Henry Kaufman Swimming camp and is currently still working at the Bernikow Jewish Community Center lifeguarding and instructing (2015-present). I have experience teaching with a range of ages from 1-15 and 60+. I love working with children and adults helping them get to their goal of swimming. Each lesson is customized to the individual learning how to swim. The lessons range from learning how to get off the wall to swimming laps depending on what your goals are. As an instructor I move at the pace that is the most comfortable for each kid.
Justine,
I have been swimming since I was a child and have always loved being in the water. Although I never had formal lessons myself, I joined the swim team in high school. After high school, I missed swimming so much that I decided to become a lifeguard. Soon after becoming a lifeguard, I began teaching swim lessons and have continued to do so for the past several years. I teach swimming because I think it is a very important skill to have. I am an outgoing and friendly person. As a swim instructor I am nurturing and patient, but stern when needed.
Both being trained swim instructors our plans are to crush fears of drowning and to educate children on water safety, while encouraging them into reaching and crushing goals. Examples of going about this include:
* Beginner students - Instructors will ease their fears and encourage them to try new tasks and have fun while learning.
* More experienced swimmers - Instructors will push them to improve their swimming abilities so that they can reach their goals. By teaching technique before speed and endurance, and making sure that our students know survival skills, we will be able to enforce a safe environment while also moving children throughout each stage of swimming. Instructors also make sure that students can perform one task before moving on to the next so that they do not become overwhelmed. We encourage parents to communicate with their child's/children's instructor about their progress and/or goals that they would like them to meet.
