As “America’s swim instructor,” the YMCA teaches people of all ages that water should be fun, not feared, as long as everyone knows lifesaving tips for safety in and out of the water.
With summer nearly upon us, the YMCA of the Palm Beaches wants to remind the community about the important programs offered for children and adults of all abilities.
The YMCA of the Palm Beaches offers lifesaving swim lessons year-round for children and adults. Now, it’s taking the Y’s nationally recognized swimming safety program one step further by offering individuals of all ages with physical and cognitive challenges a specialized instruction program through its Adaptive Swim Lesson program.
With one-on-one instruction utilizing equipment and protocols specifically designed for those with disabilities, the Y is able to offer water safety training to everyone, regardless of ability.
Sadly, drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages one to four, and individuals (particularly children) with disabilities have an even tougher time navigating the water. The YMCA of the Palm Beaches’ eight-week Adaptive Swim program helps to dramatically reduce the odds of an accidental drowning up to 88 percent, based on national YMCA research.
The sessions are held at the Y’s Gleneagles Aquatic Center at 2728 Lake Worth Road in West Palm Beach.
The center is a training facility for the Special Olympics and is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment created for people with special needs.
Classes are offered six days per week. To learn more about the program, call (561) 968-9622 or visit www.ymcapalmbeaches.org.
