NY Learn to Swim Grant FAQ 

Which swim lessons are free?

  • Participants aged 6 months to 12 years old  Group classes only: Stage A & B, Preschool 1& 2, School Age 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6 

Are one on one lessons also free? 

  • No. One on one lessons are not eligible for grant funding and are not included in the free Learn to Swim program. 

How many free swim classes can I register my child for? 

  • You can register your child for one class per session (this includes all classes for that session, such as Mondays at 4pm) up to three sessions total through August 2027 or while grant funding is available. Additional registrations for group classes are not covered by the grant and are not permitted. 

Are there any attendance requirements? 

  • Please only register if you can commit to attending at least 6 of the 8 weekly lessons during each session. If you do not show up for the first two weeks of the session, your space will be given to those on the waiting list. 

How do I qualify for free lessons? 

  • All children aged 6 months to 12 years old registered for group lessons automatically qualify.

Can more than one child per family sign up?

  • Yes, but each child may only register for one free class per session, up to three sessions total, through August 2027 or while grant funding is available. 

Do you have to be a Y-member to participate in free swim lessons? 

  • No. However, YMCA members do receive priority registration and access to Open Swim, Family Swim, and the YMCA facility. 

What does the child need to bring or wear to swim lessons? 

  • A swimsuit is required for all participants.  Swim diapers are required for swimmers not yet potty-trained.  Goggles and a swim cap are optional but may be worn if preferred.  Scuba style masks that cover the nose are not permitted.  Full-body style wetsuits are strongly discouraged. 

How and when do I register? 

  • Register for a YMCA account here; non-member accounts are free.  
  • Family Memberships: Monday, 7/6 at 12am 
  • Individual or Youth Memberships: Wednesday, 7/8 at 12am
  • Non-member: Friday, 7/10 at 12am 

Does the caregiver need to be present?

  • Children under age 10 MUST have an adult caregiver accompany them at all times while in the pool; the caregiver may remain on the pool deck. 
  • Caregivers must swim in the water with the child in all stage A and B classes.
  • Children between the ages of 10 and 12 MUST have an adult caregiver within the Y facility, but the adult caregiver does not need to remain on the pool deck.