Sag Harbor third graders dive into swim lessons
Sag Harbor Elementary School third graders recently made a splash, completing a session of their swimming program in partnership with the YMCA East Hampton RECenter.
As part of the school’s physical education curriculum, students in grades 1 through 4 participate in swim instruction designed to meet New York State standards. Beyond physical fitness, the program plays an important role in promoting water safety for children growing up on the East End of Long Island, where access to pools, bays and ocean beaches is a part of everyday life.
The third grade program includes multiple sessions, beginning with an evaluation period. During the first session, YMCA instructors assess each student’s comfort and skill level in the water and place them into groups based on experience. This thoughtful approach ensures that every child receives the appropriate level of instruction, challenge and support.
Students new to swimming focus on foundational skills, such as floating safely on their backs. Intermediate swimmers may learn techniques like a kneeling dive, while more advanced students build endurance and learn various swim strokes.
To further support their students, Sag Harbor Elementary School continues a partnership with the YMCA as an after-school program, offering beginner swimmers additional opportunities to strengthen their abilities and deepen their understanding of water safety.