Swimming Lessons for Kids in Ottawa

It's hard to believe that our summer days are coming to an end and that school will be starting soon. Though kids across town may still be running around at the parks and taking a dip in the local pools—it's time to get the kids' after-school activities lined up for the fall. If you're considering swim lessons—we've got you covered.

At many city pools, swim lessons run through the City of Ottawa remain very popular. You can select from a variety of days and times to find the best schedule for your kids. We love the affordable prices and the vast selection. For those who aren't sure what level to register your child in, request a swimming level assessment to find the best Red Cross program.

With locations in Ottawa's east and west ends, The Aqua Life Swim Academy offers private, semi-private and small group classes with skilled instructors. The lessons are customized to help your child improve their swimming skills and do their best in the pool. We love the private options and quiet pool locations.

Following Red Cross swim levels, the Ottawa Athletic Club offers private, semi-private and group lessons. There is also a class called Power Swim for strong swimmers aged 8-14 that sounds exciting for kids who need a bit more challenge. The class focuses on drills and a swim workout with races. If your kids were fans of the Olympic Games, they will love this!

How about taking lessons in a four lane, salt water pool? The Soloway JCC is a comfortable setting that offers low-ratio classes for kids of all ages, right through to adult. There's even a slide and a baby slide, and while that may not be a lesson requirement, the pool sounds like a welcoming, fun place for kids who may be hesitant to get in the water.

Located in central Ottawa, Dovercourt Recreation Centre has lessons for all ages, but we love that there is a class for older swimmers looking to improve their endurance or overall physical fitness, and classes that are specifically designed for after school kids and home-schoolers. Image via quietfish.com

Instead of fussing with a pre-set schedule that doesn't work for your family, or going somewhere out of the way for lessons, turn to AquaMobile. Bring the swim lesson to your own pool or condo's pool with class options for kids, adults and lifeguard training. Pool safety courses are also offered and neighbours can get together to plan for a group session.

Three swimming lesson locations are in Ottawa and they range from lessons for babies to age 17. Families will like the opportunity to get their children in a class together or around the same time. Parents attend lessons for ages 3 and under and the lessons can be customized for your child.

Lessons in your own backyard or at your condo building pool can be arranged with Hippo in the Bathtub. We love that the lessons focus on the needs of the student with special attention paid to those who find public pools with too much chlorine uncomfortable or too noisy. Mermaid lessons and birthday parties are an added bonus.