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learn to swim...better!
Find answers to all your questions about swim lessons at Swim Mechanix.
Our FAQ page covers everything from class schedules and swim gear to progression and safety measures. Get the information you need to feel confident about choosing the right swim program for you or your child.
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Do I need to re-enrol every term?No need to worry about re-enrolling each term – we’ve streamlined the process to make it hassle-free for you. Automatic Re-enrolment: At the end of every term, we automatically consider your child enrolled for the next term. However, we understand that schedules can change. End-of-Term Email: We’ll send you an email at the end of the term. This is your opportunity to let us know if you need to change the day or time of your child’s class based on your upcoming commitments. While we can’t guarantee every request can be accommodated, responding early to this email improves the chances of meeting your preferences. Class Assignments Based on Skills: Your child’s class day and time for the next term will be based on the skill updates provided in week 9. If you notice a change in the class time that you haven’t requested, it often indicates that your child has advanced to the next stage! Opportunity for Changes: The week following the skill updates is when you can request changes to your child's class schedule (space permitting). This week is also when new customers can start requesting class bookings for the upcoming term. Need Help or Have Questions?: If you have any queries about the re-enrolment process or need assistance, please feel free to contact us. We’re here to ensure a smooth transition from one term to the next for your child’s swimming lessons. Rest assured, we are committed to making the enrolment process as seamless as possible, allowing you to focus on your child's swimming journey.
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My child is sick :(We understand that illnesses happen, but for the health and safety of all our swimmers and staff, we ask that you do not bring your child to their swimming lessons if they are unwell or recovering from an illness. Attending lessons while sick not only hinders your child's learning experience but also poses a risk of spreading illness to others. Notifying Us of Illness: If your child is sick, please inform us as soon as possible and before their scheduled lesson. You can do this by marking them as absent in the Customer Portal, by calling to leave a message on 6255 4470, messaging us on social media, or by email your location@swimmechanix.com.au. Timely notification ensures that we can manage your child’s absence appropriately. Make-Up Tokens: When notified in advance of an absence, we can issue a half price make-up token, up to a maximum of 2 per person per term. These tokens allow your child to attend an additional lesson at a reduced fee when they are feeling better. Please note that make-up tokens expire 6 months from the issue date and they are not transferable to credit or refunds. Medical Credits: For absences due to medical reasons, we can provide up to 1 medical credit per person per term, provided that a medical certificate is submitted. This credit can be applied to the next consecutive program but will not be carried forward past 2 months and are not refundable or transferable to cash. Your child's health and well-being are our top priority. If you have any questions or need to report an absence, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
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We want to take a break...Taking a break from swimming lessons is completely understandable, and we aim to make this process as smooth as possible for you. Notifying Us of Your Break: In week 9 of each term, we’ll send you an email regarding enrolment for the next term. If you plan to take a break, please respond to this email with your preference. This helps us update our records and make the necessary adjustments. Importance of Timely Notification: If we do not receive your notification to take a break, we will automatically re-enroll your child for the next term, and the associated fees will be charged. Please be mindful that many of our classes have waiting lists, and holding a spot without intending to attend can be frustrating for others. Withdrawal After Term Start: Should you decide to withdraw from the program after the term start date, a $15 administrative fee will be applied to your account. This fee is payable at the time of any future enrolments. Need Help or Have Questions?: If you require assistance with this process or have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team is here to help. Returning to Swim Lessons: When you’re ready to rejoin our swim program, just let us know! We’d be happy to assist you with re-enrollment and welcome your child back to the pool. Remember, our goal is to provide flexibility and support for your family’s swimming journey, and we look forward to welcoming you back whenever you’re ready.
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I'm not sure what Stage my child is?We understand that each child is unique, and choosing the right stage for your little one is crucial. Our Infant Aquatic program is tailored to align with the physical and developmental milestones of children, offering a nurturing and safe environment for them to learn and grow. Duck 1: 5 - 12 months of age Duck 2: 12 - 18 months of age Duck 3: 18 - 24 months of age Duck 4: 24 - 30 months of age Duck 5: 30 - 36 months of age Duck 6: 36 - 42 months of age Choosing the Right Stage: Age and Development: While age is a primary factor, consider your child’s comfort with water and any previous water exposure. Milestones: Each stage corresponds to typical developmental milestones. We’re happy to discuss these with you to better understand your child’s needs. Personal Assessment: If you’re uncertain, our expert instructors can assess your child’s readiness and recommend the appropriate stage. Adaptability: We occasionally combine stages for optimal class sizes but rest assured, our skilled instructors tailor activities to suit each child's level. At times we'll combine stages when we don't have full classes. There wont be a huge difference in skills when we combine them, however our expert teachers can always extend and adjust skills depending on the participants. For more information about the Infant Aquatics Program and to view detailed descriptions of each stage, please visit our website: Royal Life Saving WA - Infant Aquatics. Your child's aquatic journey is just a splash away!
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What does my child need to wear?Ensuring the safety and hygiene of all our little swimmers is a top priority. Here’s a guide to help you choose the right swimwear for your child: Swim Nappies: All children who are not yet toilet trained must wear a swim nappy, either disposable or reusable. Look for nappies that offer a secure fit to prevent leaks. Bathers: Please ensure that the bathers worn over the nappies fit snugly. This is important for both comfort and hygiene. Rash Shirt: We recommend a swimming or rash shirt, as young children can be quite slippery when wet! These shirts also provide extra warmth and, if they are UV resistant, offer some sun protection during outdoor sessions at home. Footwear: Non-slip aquatic shoes are recommended for walking around the pool area to keep little feet safe. Label Everything: Remember to label all your child’s swimwear and belongings. Swim Caps: Swim caps are required to be worn by all swimmers during all lessons helping us to have a cleaner pool with less chemicals used to sanitise. These can be purchased on deck by speaking to a friendly Deck Assistant who can allocate the cost to your account. If you have any questions or need further guidance, feel free to contact us. We’re here to ensure your child’s swim time is both fun and safe!
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Do I swim with my baby?Absolutely! For the safety and enhanced bonding experience, we require a parent or carer, who must be over the age of 16 years, to be in the water with the child at all times during our Infant Aquatic sessions. Why Your Presence Matters: Your participation is crucial in providing emotional support and a sense of security for your child, which greatly aids in their learning and adaptation to the water. Adult Swim Attire: We recommend that the adult swimming with the child wear a t-shirt or swim rash shirt. This not only helps with your child’s grasping skills - a vital aspect of water safety and survival - but also makes it easier for your child to hold onto you during lessons. Transition to Independence: As your child grows and develops their skills, our instructors will work with you to determine the right time to transition to independent lessons. This typically occurs between 3 and 4.5 years of age, depending on the child’s comfort and readiness. Your Role in the Learning Process: Your engagement during lessons is not just about supervision but also about actively participating in your child’s aquatic education. Our instructors are here to guide and support you, especially if you are new to swimming with a child. A Personalized Approach: We understand that each child’s journey is unique. Our program is designed to be flexible, adapting to the individual progress and needs of your child. We look forward to seeing you and your little one in the water, creating memorable learning experiences together. Should you have any more questions or need further assistance, please feel free to contact us.
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What does my child learn?In our Infant Aquatic program, we focus on aligning with developmental and physical milestones appropriate for each age group. Our program offers a range of skills tailored to foster not only water safety but also a lifelong love for swimming. Here’s what your child will learn: Foundational Skills: Comfort with water, basic swimming movements, coordination, and safety skills. Parent & Child Classes: These classes allow for a nurturing learning environment where you, as a parent, play a key role. You’ll be directly involved in helping your child practice and develop these skills. Skill-Based Learning: Each activity is skill-based, meaning we adapt them to suit your child’s individual development level. Whether your child needs to advance or take a step back, our activities cater to their specific needs. Progression and Adaptability: As your child grows, the skills taught in the program evolve to include more advanced swimming techniques and water safety knowledge. Teacher Support: Our experienced Infant Aquatics teachers are always on hand to offer suggestions and adjustments, ensuring that every child gets the most out of their class, regardless of their skill level. Parental Engagement: We encourage parents to observe and engage with their child’s learning process, providing valuable feedback and insights that help us customize the experience. Focus on Fun: Above all, we ensure that learning to swim is a fun and enjoyable experience for your child, helping to build a positive relationship with water that lasts a lifetime. We are dedicated to providing a supportive, enjoyable, and educational experience for both you and your child. For any specific questions or to learn more about the program, feel free to contact us.
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Lesson PricingOur parent and child classes are designed to offer value and quality learning experiences. Each class is 30 minutes long and billed upfront for the entire term. For the latest information on our pricing and class information please visit our Pricing page.
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What locations offer these lessons?Our Infant Aquatics program is specifically designed to provide the best learning environment for your child. Currently, we offer these programs at the following locations: Byford Location: Our Byford facility boasts a warm 34-degree hydrotherapy pool, perfect for infants to learn and enjoy their swim experience comfortably. Success Location: Similarly, our Success location is equipped with a 34-degree hydrotherapy pool, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for your child’s aquatic journey. Contact and Visit Us: For more information or to schedule a visit, please contact our Byford and Success locations. We’d love to show you around and answer any questions you may have about our Infant Aquatics program. Our goal is to make aquatic learning accessible and enjoyable for all young learners. We look forward to welcoming you and your child to one of our specially designed locations.
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When does my toddler swim independently?The transition from parent & child lessons to independent swimming is a significant milestone in your child’s aquatic journey. Our parent & child lessons are not just about skill development; they are also a wonderful opportunity for bonding and instilling a respect for water safety. Readiness for Independence: When your child starts showing signs of wanting more independence, we consider moving them to our Transitioning Toddler class. We look for several key indicators of readiness, including: Emotional regulation in the absence of a parent. Ability to stay safe by standing or holding onto the pool wall as instructed. Responsiveness to the teacher’s instructions and willingness to attempt skills independently. Physical ability to propel themselves through water confidently. About the Transitioning Toddler Class: This class is tailored for toddlers who are showing these signs of independence. It focuses on fostering self-reliance in the water, while still under the close supervision of our experienced instructors. Parents are encouraged to be poolside, ready to swim if needed, but not in the water. This approach allows your child to explore their abilities while knowing you are close by for support. Parental Role: We ask parents to come prepared to enter the water if requested by the teacher, as it’s easier to have you join in when necessary rather than leave the poolside. Communication and Support: We understand that this transition can be both exciting and a bit daunting for parents. We encourage open communication with our instructors about your child’s progress and readiness. Our team is here to support both you and your child every step of the way. Parent & child lessons are a fabulous way to bond, learn new skills and ensure your child has a love and respect for water safety and swimming. The move to independent swimming is a big step, and we are committed to making it a positive and rewarding experience for your child. Feel free to reach out to contact us with any questions or concerns you may have.
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How do I register for lessons?Joining our Infant Aquatics program is simple and can be done in a few easy steps: 1. Create an Account: Visit our website and create an account. Look for the ‘Sign Up’ or ‘Register’ button to get started. 2. Add Your Child: Once your account is set up, navigate to the ‘Student’ tab and add your little one’s details. This will enable us to tailor the class options to your child’s age and skill level. 3. Explore the Customer Portal: Our user-friendly Customer Portal is your gateway to managing your child’s aquatic journey. Here you can: Request and book classes. Transfer classes if needed. Use Make Up tokens for missed classes. Stay informed with Skill Updates. Easily make payments. To Register: Get started by visiting to our iClassPro portal! Need Help?: If you have any questions or need assistance during the registration process, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team is here to help you every step of the way. We encourage you to sign up as soon as possible to secure your preferred class times. We look forward to welcoming you and your child to our Infant Aquatics family!
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I'm not sure what Stage my child is?Choosing the right stage for your child in our Kids Lessons program is essential for their swimming success. Here’s how you can determine the most suitable stage: New to Swimming (Over 4 Years of Age): If your child is over 4 years old and has never had swimming lessons, we recommend starting in Stage 1. This stage is designed to introduce beginners to the basics of swimming and water safety. Previous Swimming Experience: If your child has had swimming lessons before, refer to their last certificate or the skills they were learning. You can compare these skills with our stages by visiting Royal Life Saving WA - Swim and Survive Levels. Booking a Class: Once you have an idea of the suitable stage, create an account in our Customer Portal and request your booking. In-Class Assessment: For children who haven’t swum regularly in the last 6 months, we may suggest an in-class assessment. This assessment helps us ensure that your child is placed in a stage that matches their current skill level, ensuring a positive and productive learning experience. Need Assistance?: If you’re still unsure about the right stage for your child, or if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team is ready to assist you in making the best choice for your child’s swimming journey.
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What does my child need to wear?Wearing comfortable bathers, goggles and bringing a towel to dry off is all that's needed for a fun time at swimming lessons. Comfortable fitting bathers: Making sure that your swimmers' bathers fit well is important when completing lessons. Rash shirt: Although we are delivering from indoor pools, a rash shirt may be suitable for those who feel the cold or want some added coverage. Short sleeved is preferred and again, well fitted shirts will help your swimmer be resistance free in the water. Swim Caps: Swim caps are required to be worn by all swimmers during all lessons helping us to have a cleaner pool with less chemicals used to sanitise. These can be purchased on deck by speaking to a friendly Deck Assistant who can allocate the cost to your account. Goggles: Poorly fitted goggles can make or break even the most confident swimmer with the side adjustable products being the preferred option. Making sure the goggle fits around the outside of the orbital bone on your child's face will help us to keep them on for longer! Towel: Bring a towel to wrap & go during warmer months and a towel to dry off after a quick rinse in the cooler ones. Our showers are for rinsing, not showering, and we recommend a quick rinse off before leaving the facility followed by a shower with PH balanced soap if needed once home.
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How long will it take my child to pass a Stage?Understanding the time it takes for a child to progress through a stage in our swimming program is important. Here’s what you can expect: Individual Learning Rates: Every child learns at their own pace. Factors like physical strength, ability, and frequency of swimming contribute significantly to their rate of progress, whether in small group lessons or private sessions. Average Duration: On average, a child may participate in the same stage for about 3 terms. However, this is a general estimate. Some children may progress faster, while others may need more time to build confidence and master skills, especially if attending lessons sporadically. Regular Assessments and Updates: Our teachers conduct weekly assessments to monitor each child's progress. Skills updates are made available in the Customer Portal by our deck staff in weeks 3, 6, and 9 of each term. For holiday programs, these updates occur at the end of the first and second week. Certificate Distribution: To acknowledge the hard work and dedication of our swimmers, certificates are given to all participants in Terms 2 and 4. In Terms 1 and 3, certificates are awarded only to those who pass a stage. This approach helps us manage resources effectively while still celebrating every child’s effort and achievements. Importance of Regular Practice: Consistent practice, both in lessons and through additional swimming opportunities, can greatly influence a child's progression. We're Here to Help: If you have concerns about your child’s progression or want advice on how to further support their swimming journey, please contact us. Our team is always here to provide guidance and support. Remember, the journey in learning to swim is unique for every child. Our goal is to ensure a positive and enriching experience, celebrating each milestone along the way.
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What does the certificate mean?Front of the Certificate: The front of the certificate provides a quick overview of your child's achievement. If your child has successfully passed the stage, you’ll see a tick in the box. If not, it will be marked with 'NP' (Not Passed). This helps you understand at a glance how your child has fared in the current term. Next Stage Enrollment: At the bottom of the front side, you'll find a recommendation for what stage to enroll your child in for the next term. This guidance ensures a smooth transition to the next level of their swimming journey. Back of the Certificate - Skill Mastery: The top line of skill boxes on the back indicates the stage your child has been attempting. Skills that your child has consistently demonstrated (shown 3 times in each lesson over 3 lessons) will be ticked off, signifying mastery in those areas. Teacher Comments: In boxes for skills not yet mastered, our teachers will include comments. These notes are valuable as they offer specific insights into how your child can improve in certain areas. Engage with the Teacher: We encourage you to discuss the certificate with your child’s teacher. They can provide a more detailed explanation of your child's progress and offer advice for further development. Encouragement and Support: If your child hasn’t passed a stage, remember that learning to swim is a journey with ups and downs. Continued practice, both in and out of class, is key to their development. Your child’s certificate is not just a record of their achievements; it’s a tool to help guide and support their ongoing learning and love for swimming.
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Lesson Prices and Class SizesOur Swim & Survive program offers structured lessons across various stages, each designed to cater to different skill levels and ages. Here is the pricing structure for our lessons: Stages 1 - 4: These lessons are 30 minutes long with a maximum of 4 students in a group. Stages 5 : Lessons are 45 minutes long, with groups of up to 5 students. For the latest information on our pricing and class information please visit our Pricing page.
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What locations offer these lessons?Our Swim & Survive program is available at multiple locations, each offering a range of stages to suit your child’s needs. Here’s where and when you can find our classes: Byford Location: Address: 57 Abernethy Road (Byford Secondary College) - enter from Gordin Way. Offerings: Stages 1 - 5 of Swim & Survive. Schedule: Available on weekends only. Contact: Byford@swimmechanix.com.au, phone 6255 7740 choose Byford. Success Location: Address: 390 Wentworth Parade (Success Primary School). Offerings: Stages 1 - 5 of Swim & Survive. Schedule: Every weekday after school and all day on Saturday and Sunday. Contact: Success@swimmechanix.com.au, phone 6255 7740 choose Success. Lesmurdie Location: Address: 200 Lesmurdie Road (St Brigid's College Pool & Fitness Centre). Offerings: Stages 1 - 15 of Swim & Survive. Schedule: Weekday afternoons after school and Saturday mornings. Contact: Lesmurdie@swimmechanix.com.au, phone 6255 7740 choose Lesmurdie. Pool and Fitness Centre memberships available for out or lessons swimming. Additional Information: We encourage you to visit or contact us for a more detailed schedule or if you have any questions. Our team is happy to assist you in choosing the best option for your child’s swimming education.
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Stage 1 - BeginnerSafely enter and exit the water with confidence. Relaxed and confidently exhalation of water with the face in. Confidently open eyes under water and identify an object. Submerge head underwater at a minimum of waist deep. Glide forward and recover in waist deep water with face submerged and exhaling; near horizontal body position, arms extended in front of the head, recovery to a standing position. Float or glide backward and recover from near horizontal position; recovery to a standing position. Confident entry into and exit from the water and floating for 10-15 seconds with a flotation aid.
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Stage 2 - Water DiscoveryFrom near horizontal body position and with face in the water; glide forward and flutter kick without excessive knee bend for 3m. From near horizontal body position; glide backward and flutter kick without excessive knee bend - no set distance. Freestyle 5m with face submerged and flutter kicking; arm recovery clear of water with face in water exhaling. Basic hand and leg action to outward and inward scull/tread water; alternating leg action, ability to gain some support. Water Safety Sequence; gliding forward and recover to a standing position. Float for 30 seconds with a flotation aid and be pulled to safety.
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Stage 3 - PreliminaryFreestyle 10m with a regular breathing pattern, regular leg action in a near horizontal body position. From a near horizontal body position; flutter kick without excessive knee bend to complete a 5m glide backward in minimum waist deep water. Breaststroke leg action 5m swim on back (with board). Demonstrate circular movement of feet with a visible attempt to turn toes. Demonstrate survival sculling on back with sculling hand action; flat, relaxed hands; effective support. Demonstrate a basic forward roll. Desirable to see: roll in one plane; recovery to a standing position. Water Safety Sequence of gliding and swimming for 10m, recovery to an upright position. Support body in an upright position and signal distress.
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Stage 4 - Water AwarenessFreestyle 15m swim with a regular breathing pattern from a near horizontal position and with effective propulsion. Backstroke 10m. From a near horizontal body position complete a swim with regular leg action and straight arm recovery. Catch up acceptable. Survival Backstroke 10m. Using circular leg action; toes turned out, complete with below water arm recovery. Breaststroke swim 5m basic with circular leg action and toes turned out. Scull head first on back without leg action. Sculling hand action with backwards movement. Confident submersion with visual identification of an object to recover an object from minimum chest deep water. Confidence to swim in deep water; ability to submerge and surface; vertical and horizontal body positions. Water Safety Sequence swim and survival scull for 60 seconds. Grasp and object and be pulled to safety.
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Stage 5 - Water SenseFreestyle 25m with the correct technique; effective propulsion, regular breathing, confidence in completing distance. Backstroke 15m with the correct technique; near horizontal body position, regular leg action, correct hand entry. Survival Backstroke 15m with symmetrical leg action; effective leg action, below surface arm recovery, confidence in completing distance. Breaststroke 15m with symmetrical leg action; effective leg action, toes turned out, sculling hand action. Demonstrate a head first surface dive with vertical descent in shoulder deep water to recover an object with breaststroke approach. Water Safety Sequence with step in entry. Scull for 60 seconds using a combination of survival sculling and horizontal sculling, keeping the face above water. Grasp a flotation aid thrown for support and swim for 60 seconds. Be pulled to safety by a partner.
Why swim with us?
Award winning swim school delivering
Royal Life Saving endorsed programs
We don't just
teach swimming,
we engineer every stroke to perfection.
Small classes
that are stimulating
and enjoyable for all students.
Partnering
with you to make a
splash towards
safer, stronger
swimmers.
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