Swim Lessons: Level 1

Introduction to Water Skills

MUST BE AT LEAST 5 YEARS OLD.

Tentative in and around water, uncomfortable submerging head and not yet floating independently.

Course Content: Learn to Swim, Level 1helps participants feel comfortable in the water. Skills covered include: bobbing, retrieving objects underwater, front and back glides, back float, tread water using arms and hands, combined arm and leg actions on front and back, and age-appropriate water safety topics.

Exit Skills:

• Enter independently, using either the ladder, steps or side
• Travel at least 5 yards, bob 5 times then safely exit the water. (Participants can walk, move along the gutter or "swim.")
• Glide on front at least 2 body lengths, roll to a back float for 5 seconds and recover to a vertical position. (This part of the assessment can be performed with support.)

Curriculum and levels are based on the Red Cross' Learn-to-Swim Program. For questions about what level your child should register for, refer to our descriptions.

If you are a new family to Orono Community Education’s swimming lessons, we encourage you to schedule a swimming pre-assessment to determine the best level for your swimmer. Pre-assessments take place at the Orono pool. Instructors will guide your swimmer through a set of skills in a 15-minute period.

Pre-assessments will take place in early December 2026. Contact Alden von Bargen to schedule a pre-assessment at alden.vonbargen@orono.k12.mn.us.

Note: Attending a pre-assessment does not guarantee a spot in lessons. Spots fill quickly.