About Us
what we do
The lessons we offer teach this prone positioning method, but we also added a HUGE safety component. This not only teaches children to swim at astonishingly early ages but introduces all the different ways they could save themselves if they fell into a body of water accidentally. Since 2014, we've taught over 10,000 children this method and about 80% of the little ones accomplished these goals. We call this new method, Survival First. Some toddlers may not be strong enough to accomplish all the goals listed on this page without a little assistance. But around 3 years of age, children should be able to do these skills by lesson 8. Once these swimmers can swim independently, we offer Red Cross Learn to Swim programs, as well.
learn from us
We look forward to bonding with each of your little ones during lessons. We understand how hard it is to let go and let a little one experience new, scary things, particularly when they are upset. However, you are allowing them to be taught a skill that might one day save their lives. We encourage you be tough, take lots of deep breaths, and allow us to teach your children this method. By the end of lesson, you'll be amazed at how proud they are to show off their new skills to you!
Our lead instructors are Red Cross certified Water Safety Instructors (WSI) with several years of teaching and/or coaching experience and are assisted by Red Cross certified WSI Aides or certified lifeguards. All are infant/child CPR certified. Our staff to child ratio is 1:4 or 1:5 in more advanced classes.
our goals
What your child will be taught at Tadpole Academy in the beginner class:
- How to hold their breath when they enter the water.
- How to swim to safety if they were to accidentally fall into a swimming pool.
- How to hold onto the side of the pool, pull themselves out, or walk their hands down to get out at the steps or ladder.
- They will retrieve objects in about 4 feet of water.
- Children will jump from an elevated surface, come up swimming, and swim to the side.
- Children who show readiness learn how to use their arms to move through the water and will be shown how to take a breath while swimming.
- Children will be introduced to back floating.
- Children swim fully clothed for an entire lesson so they can learn what it feels like to swim in the weight of wet clothing and shoes.
Meet Our Team!
CARMELA ABELS, CEO
I am a wife and mommy of three. My mother instilled in me the importance of water safety at a young age, and I have done the same with mine! They all have taken Survival First classes at Tadpole Academy during different stages in their young life. Let me help guide you to the best class for your little one in your area!