Yes, and to start, we strongly suggest private lessons, especially when fear is involved. This allows you to:

- Focus fully on you and your comfort level

- Go at your own rhythm

- Build confidence and trust in the water safely and learn without distractions or pressure

Private lessons are often the fastest and most reassuring way to begin, and many adults transition to small groups later once they feel more comfortable.

We would truly love to support you on this journey - choosing to learn how to swim as an adult is a powerful decision, and we’ll be right there with you every step of the way

For private adult lessons, we make every effort, whenever possible, to match female swimmers with female instructors and male swimmers with male instructors, to ensure comfort and respect individual preferences.

That’s completely okay, and very common.

At MIS, we specialize in building confidence first. Our instructors are trained to meet each child exactly where they are, moving at a pace that feels safe and supportive. We focus on small wins, trust-building, and skill development in a calm, encouraging environment.

We never force a child into the water. Instead, we help them feel comfortable step by step, whether that means sitting on the edge, playing gentle water games, or starting with a parent nearby.

Confidence in the water doesn’t happen overnight, it’s built with patience, consistency, and the right support. And that’s exactly what we provide.

You’d be amazed at how quickly fear can turn into pride.

For most lessons, parents remain on the pool deck rather than in the water (unless it is Parent & Baby classes)

While we completely understand the instinct to jump in and help, children build independence, confidence, and trust much faster when they connect directly with their instructor. When a parent is in the water, children often rely on them instead of developing their own skills.

Our instructors are trained to create a safe, nurturing environment and to gently guide swimmers through each step at their own pace. This allows children to:

• Build true water confidence

• Strengthen listening and focus

• Develop independence

• Form a strong bond with their instructor

For very young swimmers or specific transition situations, we may offer guidance on how to gradually move from parent-supported to instructor-led learning.

Our goal is always long-term confidence, not just short-term comfort. And we promise, we’ll support both you and your child through every step of that journey.

Yes. We welcome neurodivergent swimmers, including those with autism, ADHD, and other developmental differences.

Private lessons are often the best fit, as they allow us to tailor instruction to the swimmer’s pace and learning style. To ensure safety and a positive experience, swimmers should be able to follow basic instructions and communicate at some level.

If you’re unsure which format is best, reach out to us by email or phone. We will be happy to guide you and recommend the instructor best suited to support your child.

Each session is 30 minutes. This is the industry standard and has been proven effective for over 15 years.

Thirty minutes allows swimmers to stay focused, engaged, and energized while building strong skills without fatigue.

Progress depends on the child.

Some children show noticeable improvement within just a few lessons, especially if they’re already comfortable in the water. Others may take more time, particularly beginners or nervous swimmers.

We focus on building real skills and confidence at each child’s pace. Consistency is the biggest factor in steady progress.

At MIS, we don’t focus on “levels”, we focus on skills.

Every swimmer develops differently, so the right class depends on your child’s comfort in the water, independence, and current abilities (not their age alone).

Here’s a simple way to decide:

Private Lessons – Best for beginners, nervous swimmers, or children who benefit from one-on-one attention and faster progress.

Semi-Private (2 swimmers) – Great for siblings or friends with similar abilities who enjoy learning together.

Small Group Lessons – Ideal for swimmers who are comfortable in the water and ready to build technique, endurance, and stronger stroke development.

If you’re unsure, don’t worry, that’s what we’re here for. Send us an email at info@swim-montreal.com with:

• Your child’s age

• Their comfort level in the water

• Whether they can float or swim independently

• Area you live in to choose the right pool for you.

We’ll guide you to the best fit.

Our goal is simple: place your child where they will feel confident, supported, and set up for success.