Frequently Asked Questions

What do I do if my child needs to miss a class?

Although we do offer make-up classes for illness and injury, we encourage families to make sure your child gets the most out of their lessons and attend their regularly scheduled class. Students get far more out of their normal lesson than a make-up lesson due to teacher changes as well as the other children in their class. We cannot always guarantee that a make-up class will be available because many of our classes are full.

If it is not possible for your child to make their scheduled class, please notify the swim office at least 1 hour prior to missing the class. If you know you will be absent further ahead of time, please let us know earlier so we can offer that space to another family. All scheduled make-up lessons need to be completed within one calendar year of the missed class. Once a make-up has been scheduled, it may not be re-scheduled for any reason.

How do I change my day or time?

We know how busy schedules can get and we are happy to change your child’s day and time when another class is available. Please contact the swim office. If you see a space available on the website, you can register for that class and send an e-mail that your child needs to be dropped from the other class.

Can I request a teacher?

We understand students become fond of certain teachers. We are fond of all our teachers. Although you may have selected classes based on the teacher listed, last minute modifications may be made based on class scheduling or changes in teacher availability. Please be aware that teachers need to take time off every now and then. While we will always have a fully qualified teacher in place, we cannot guarantee their gender.

What do I need to bring to swim lessons?

Your child will need to have a swim suit and towel. For children not potty trained or under the age of 3 please read the swim diaper policy. Many children prefer to have goggles. If your child needs goggles, rash guard, swim cap, or a swim diaper, they are available for purchase at each location.

What if my child is scared or cries?

We know it can be hard to watch your little one crying or scared. One thing to consider is that we have raised our children to a) not talk to strangers b) stay away from water. Then we put them in the water with a stranger. This can be scary for some children. Learning trust is a big part of swimming. Trust is gained over time, not just a few lessons.

Our teachers are all trained in handling these situations. The Deck Supervisor or Manager on Duty can also be helpful and talk to the children about why they are scared or crying. Talking with the child, playing games, singing songs, and playing with toys can all be used to help ease the child into the class. If you need assistance with your child, please let our staff know so we can work with them. We want all children to feel comfortable and happy swimming!

How do I contact my child’s teacher?

Since many of our classes are back-to-back, there is limited time to speak with the instructor. If you have a quick question, you can ask the teacher as the children are getting out of the pool. If you need more information, you can talk to the Manager on Duty.

Why does my child seem to be "stuck" in a particular level?

Children often hit a plateau and get stuck at a certain point. This is common when a child progresses very quickly in the beginning or takes sessions off. Our teachers are trained in how to motivate the swimmers that have been in the same level. As an owner and parent himself, Joe can attest to how frustrating it can be when your child stays in a particular level for a while. His own children have gotten stuck in levels for over a year. Please bring it to our attention when you feel your child has been in a level longer than you would anticipate. We can then evaluate the reason why this may be happening and come up with steps to help your child move forward.

Why do you encourage year round, weekly 30 minute lessons?

At New Jersey Swim Schools, Inc., we believe that children who take year round swim lessons learn to swim and be safe in the water at a faster pace. When children take time off they lose the skills they have gained through the session. This leads to wasted time and money for families. We also feel that 30 minutes is the perfect amount of time for children’s lessons. Most children are able to pay attention for the 30 minutes. When swimming for longer, children can get tired and will do the skills but not always with proper technique.

When can I sign up for lessons?

You can sign up at any time. Please check our class schedules to find the right one for your child. If you sign up after classes have started, we may pro-rate your fees so you only pay for the remaining classes.

How do I register for lessons?

You can register on our website, call the office, or e-mail to register.

How do I pay for lessons and/or merchandise?

Due to our wonderful registration system, we are able to keep a secured credit card on file. Class fees are automatically posted to the credit card that is active on you Njswim account. Merchandise is sold at each of our locations. You can pay for merchandise with cash or the credit card we have on file. We accept Visa, American Express, and Mastercard.

How do I cancel my child’s swim lessons?

We work on a rolling membership, meaning once your child is enrolled, he/she will swim uninterrupted from month to month until or unless a written notice of cancellation is submitted to your Njswim office no later than the 10th of each month, for the upcoming month (for example July 10th for August cancellation).

Notice of cancellation forms can be requested electronically through the office via the location email or by clicking the button below.

Cancellation Form

We understand that things do come up and schedules do change. We greatly appreciate the cooperation of our families by adhering to our cancellation guidelines.

Upon re-enrollment, there will be a $25 enrollment fee per family. In an effort to allow us to continue to provide exceptional service and a rolling monthly membership with no long-term commitment, the $25 enrollment fee is applied each time you are enrolled after a scheduled drop/cancellation.

What if Njswim has to cancel a lesson?

If Njswim must cancel a lesson for any reason, we will provide a make-up class. No refunds will be given for cancelled lessons.

Do I need to change classes if my child moves to the next level?

Our system is unique because our teachers are able to adapt their teaching methods for each child in the class. We believe that keeping the same teacher and same kids in the class help children better adjust. Changing classes may make it difficult for families with multiple children. Your child’s teacher will make sure your child works on the skills to progress through the next level.

What if my class only has one or two children enrolled?

Although we never want to cancel any classes, we reserve the right to consolidate classes with 1 or 2 participants. We will do our best to work you into another class so your child can stay swimming.

How early do I need to arrive for lessons?

We strive to start and end each lesson on time. For your child to receive their full instruction time, and to minimize the distraction to other students, please arrive at least 5 minutes before your scheduled lesson. Please encourage children to use the bathroom before the lesson to minimize interruptions during their instruction time.