The world is 71% water—are your children 100% prepared to be safe in and around it? At the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh, we believe that teaching kids how to swim is more than just a skill—it’s a life-saving necessity. According to the CDC, formal swim lessons can reduce the risk of drowning by 88%. That’s why the Y is proud to provide water safety education and swim lessons for children and families across Western Pennsylvania.
Why Water Safety Matters in Pittsburgh
From the three rivers to neighborhood pools, lakes, and streams, water is part of everyday life in our region. Unfortunately, drowning remains the second leading cause of accidental death in children under 14. Many tragedies happen quickly and silently—most often in home pools, bathtubs, or open water.
That’s why the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh’s Safety Around Water program and swim lessons are designed to give children the confidence, knowledge, and skills they need to enjoy water safely.
GROUP SWIM LESSONS
Parent & Child Lessons (Ages 6 months–3 years)
In these fun, confidence-building classes, infants and toddlers—accompanied by a parent—are introduced to the water in a safe and supportive environment.
Preschool Lessons (Ages 3–5)
Preschool swim lessons at the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh help children build confidence, learn basic swim skills, and practice water safety in a fun, supportive environment with certified instructors.
School Age Lessons (Ages 5–12)
YMCA school-age swim lessons focus on water safety, basic swim skills, and confidence-building through fun activities and drills. Students progress from foundational skills like swim-float-swim to stroke development, underwater exploration, and more.
Proper bathing suit (rash guards acceptable; no cotton or heavy-weight materials)
Towel
Swim cap (optional but recommended for long hair; hair must be tied back)
Goggles (optional for advanced swimmers)
Swim diaper for children not potty-trained
Infant/Toddler: 1 instructor per 8–10 participants
Preschool: 1 instructor per 4 participants
School-Age: 1 instructor per 5 participants
Teen/Adult: 1 instructor per 8 participants
Private and semi-private swim lessons are also available for families who want individualized attention.
For safety, pools close for 30 minutes after lightning or thunder, or if water visibility is unsafe. Make-up lesson details will be communicated directly with families.
Every child progresses differently. Age, comfort level, and prior experience all play a role. Ongoing lessons build skills, endurance, and confidence, preparing swimmers for recreational swimming, competitive programs, or even lifeguard certification.
At the YMCA of Greater Pittsburgh, everyone is welcome. Thanks to generous donors, we provide financial assistance and scholarships for swim lessons so every child can learn this critical life skill.
Adult Lessons (13+)
YMCA swim lessons for teens and adults focus on water safety, overcoming fear, and building swim skills at any level. Options include group, semi-private, private, and Masters Swim programs to help you gain confidence and keep your family safe around water.