Swimming lessons for kids in Montréal and Québec City

Children as young as 6 months can take part in the parent-tot lessons but must be accompanied by an adult.

Starting at the age of 3, children can participate in swim lessons on their own, without requiring an adult to be in the pool with them.

Choosing the swim level depends on the child’s age and swim ability.

Please refer to the level descriptions to guide you or consult our swim-level guide for more details.

You can register:

• online using ActiveNet (creating an account is required)
• By telephone at 514-687-9622
• On site at the YMCA centre of your choice

A priority registration period is open to children who were registered in one of the two previous sessions.

Children already registered in swimming lessons can also benefit from priority registration before general registration opens to the public.

If there are no more places available or if registration is not yet open, you can fill in the interest form to be informed when a spot becomes available.

At the first lesson, the swim instructor, with the help of the aquatic supervisor, assesses children’s swim abilities. If needed, your child may be redirected to a level that is more suitable to their ability.

Your child must:

• Wear a swimsuit
• Wear a swimming cap

We also recommend bringing:

• A towel
• A lock for the locker

Swimming goggles are optional.

Lessons are once a week, at the same time and day for the duration of the session.

For the parent-tot lessons (one parent per child), you will directly participate in the lessons by being in the pool with your child.  

For the other levels, an area is generally set aside by the pool for parents to observe or participate in the lesson.

The space available may vary by centre.

A 5% discount is offered starting at the second child from the same family enrolled in swimming lessons. Registration must be done through our Customer Centre or in our centres.

We offer financial assistance for swimming lessons to make them accessible to the greatest number of people.

The amount provided varies by case.

You can apply for financial assistance online or contact your YMCA centre to learn more about the terms and conditions and to see if you are eligible.

Yes, lessons are given by certified instructors, and lifeguards are always present to ensure everyone’s safety.

The environment is designed to ensure children’s safety and gradual development.