Swim Lessons

Registration

To register for swim lessons please call (309)-647-7665 or stop by the pool office at Big Creek Park.

Make-ups

In the event that classes are canceled by the Canton Park District the following Friday will be used as a make-up day. No make-ups are available when the participant chooses not to attend. If an extended medical condition prevents participation, a refund may be given or make-ups may be arranged with the Superintendent of Recreation.

Lesson Placement

If a child is not enrolled in the correct level, the teaching staff will try to make corrections on the first day of the session. The final day of the class is used as a review and rewards day.  Participants will receive a certificate for their completion of the course.

Parental Observation

In order for your children to learn as much as possible, parents are encouraged to remain as separate from their children as possible during swim lessons. Please deliver and pick up your children at the pool deck. No shoes or strollers will be allowed on deck. Showers are required before swimmers enter the water. An adult should be available during the entire lesson in case assistance is needed to take the child to the bathroom during class time.

Refund and Change of Class Policy

Participants will only be given full refunds when a medical condition for withdrawal is submitted in writing to the park district prior to the beginning of the program. If a class activity is cancelled due to lack of enrollment, a full refund will be issued. If participants cancel classes with more than 48 hours notice, a refund will be given minus a $10.00 processing fee per class registration.

Philosophy

The philosophy of the aquatic staff of the Canton Park District is to establish and maintain two goals: to deliver quality swim instruction to all ages at all levels in order to enhance the individual’s aquatic recreational activity; and to encourage the aquatic public to gain life-safety skills to be used in and around all bodies of water.

The aquatic staff of the Canton Park District has been trained to follow the American Red Cross swimming guidelines. Each level of instruction is designed as a progressional approach to swim instruction, building on previously acquired skills. Participants will move from level to level of instruction only when they have mastered their current placement. Our staff will be available to make ongoing changes as students gain skills.

There are no upper-age restrictions for any of our classes. However, expectations vary greatly from preschool to youth lessons. Staff/child ratios increase as participants progress through the various levels. Once the child advances to our youth programs, class expectations changes. Children are expected to follow directions, wait their turn, and trust their instructor when new skills are introduced. Finally, for your convenience, private swim lessons are available. These are scheduled through the Superintendent of Recreation.