Frequently asked questions
How do I register for lessons?
On the registration page of our website you will find a link for the digital registration form. Fill out the form with your information. We will contact you within 7-10 business days with your schedule. You will receive an email with your session, date, time, and a paper registration form. You will complete the process by submitting the paper registration form to the front desk at Sierra Sport and Racquet Club and pay a deposit or pay in full.
After I register for lessons can I pay online?
No, we don’t accept online payments at this time. You will complete your registration process with the front desk at Sierra Sport and Racquet Club. However, if you mail in your registration form and wait a few days for it to be received, you may call and pay over the phone to complete your registration.
Will you do lessons in our pool at our house?
No, we only offer lessons at our location, Sierra Sport and Racquet Club in Northwest Fresno.
Can I schedule more than eight lessons?
Absolutely! If you would like to schedule more than eight lessons, please register for one more than one session. You can schedule either 8, 16, or 24 lessons.
How many lessons does it take for my child to learn to swim?
The rate at which your child learns to swim will depend on their age, previous experience with water/pools, their current water skills, and their willingness to learn. All of our lessons are personalized for each individual swimmer to facilitate mastery of skills and build confidence in the water. We take what your child currently knows and build from there! Some children pick up the skills fast, while others need more time to practice and become confident. If you email Jorden at jordensobonyaswimschool@gmail.com with a description of your child’s age, previous experience with water/pools, and their current water skills, she can give you a better idea of how many sessions to register for.
Why are the lessons 20 minutes?
In our experience, we've found that 20 minutes is the optimal duration for a young beginning swimmer to actively engage in a lesson. By offering shorter yet focused sessions, we ensure that beginning swimmers can fully immerse themselves in learning without getting tired, feeling overwhelmed, or losing focus.
What age do you recommend starting swim lessons?
We believe the earlier the better! When children are exposed to water and pools at a young age, they will gain the experience needed to be safe, confident, and happy in the water. The skills learned at lessons will vary based on your child’s age and previous experience with water. On a general basis, we recommend starting lessons around 12 months of age.
Do you do you only teach beginning swimmers?
No, we teach all ages and skill levels. Once a beginning swimmer masters the basic skills, we recommend continuing lessons to learn strokes, improve technique, strength, and endurance in the water. We also teach diving!
Do you do lessons for adults?
Absolutely! We’ve teach lessons for all ages and skill levels. Our large pool has space to teach a variety of skills no matter your age.
Do you take underwater photos?
Yes! Sessions include underwater photos for no additional cost. Photos are typically taken on the 6th or 7th day of the session depending on the child’s progress with their lessons. Please understand that at times, a combination of the child’s skill level, water safety, and technology can make it a challenging task. We will do our absolute best to deliver you the best underwater photo possible. If you don’t want your child’s photo taken, please mark your preference on the registration form and let your instructor know. We typically email you the photo within one week of the final lesson.
Can I feed my child before lessons?
Your child shouldn’t eat two hours before lessons. During lessons, we focus on teaching your child to take a big breath before going under the water. Learning to take in more air may cause your child to burp. If they have recently eaten food and they burp, it may come out in the water. We need to keep the pool a sanitary and safe place for everyone to learn to swim!
Can I sit close by and watch the lessons?
Parents know their kids best. If you know your child does better listening to others when you aren’t in sight, we recommend you watch from the other side of the hill or sit in the cafe and come out towards the end. Sometimes “out of sight, out of mind” works best for some kids. If you know your child loves when you are watching and cheering them on, then yes sit close by! However, we always recommend allowing your child some space to build a connection and trust with their instructor. We always love when parents come close by for the last few minutes so the child can show off what they have learned.
What should I expect on the first day of lessons?
On the first day, please arrive 10-15 minutes early. You will check in at the front desk and pay your remaining balance before heading out to the pool. Once you are at the pool, please find a seat or wait nearby. Ask your child if they need to use the restroom before the lesson starts. Wait for your name to be called by your instructor before entering the pool.
Should I bring goggles?
No, goggles are not necessary. If you would like to bring goggles, we will practice swimming with and without goggles. We want to ensure your child learns to swim without them too, in case of an emergency and they aren’t wearing them at that time.
Will lessons take place if it is raining?
Most likely, yes. Lessons can still take place if it is raining. You will receive an email if lessons are canceled due to extreme weather conditions.