smilefish swimming curriculum

The Smilefish curriculum is the culmination of over 50 years of experience in the swimming world, developed by Russ. It’s built around a philosophy of fostering confidence and enjoyment in the water for all students. We prioritize overcoming fears and creating a positive learning environment, allowing students to progress at their own pace through a carefully structured program. This progressive approach ensures a solid foundation for future swimming success, regardless of starting ability.

The Beginner level is divided into three tiers: B1, B2, and B3. This stage is specifically designed for absolute beginners, even those who may initially be apprehensive about the water. Our goal is to transform fear into comfort and enjoyment. Activities focus on fundamental skills such as going underwater, blowing bubbles, back floating, front floating, kicking, and basic hand strokes. Students will also begin to learn the foundational elements of all swimming strokes.

• Underwater submersion
• Bubble blowing
• Back and front floating
• Kicking techniques
• Basic hand strokes
• Introduction to swimming strokes

The Advanced level, comprised of A1, A2, and A3 tiers, concentrates on teaching the more common swimming strokes. We utilize a skill-based progression, breaking down each stroke into manageable components that gradually combine to form the complete technique. This methodical approach ensures proper form and efficient movement. Students will learn freestyle (front crawl), backstroke (back crawl), sidestroke, elementary backstroke, breaststroke, and the challenging butterfly stroke.

• Freestyle (front crawl)
• Backstroke (back crawl)
• Sidestroke
• Elementary backstroke
• Breaststroke
• Butterfly

Our Swim Team level, divided into S1 and S2 tiers, is designed for students who are ready to refine their competitive strokes and master proper turns. This level focuses on the nuances of racing and preparing swimmers for competitive environments. Upon completion of S2, swimmers will demonstrate proficiency in all common swimming strokes, making them well-prepared to join a local swim team. This is the ideal pathway for students with aspirations of competitive swimming.

• Refinement of competitive strokes
• Mastery of proper turns
• Preparation for joining a swim team
• Proficiency in all common swimming strokes