The UVAC values the community and seeks to provide a safe, fun environment for people of all ages and abilities to participate in aquatic and fitness programs. One offering is the Parent and Me swim classes. Karen Cox, the UVAC Swim School director, explains that she grew up around water and learned from a very early age an enjoyment and respect for it. “Yet if one hasn't had that opportunity, learning how to be comfortable and confident in the water is essential,” says Karen. “So many parents want this for their children yet want some guidance in showing the way forward.” This is why the Parent and Me swim classes began.

Created for children six months to three years old, the class format is designed to help children learn to enjoy the water. By participating in a group, they also learn how to interact with others and experience the fun of learning. These small children, along with their parent or caregiver, learn to connect with their bodies and how their movements impact the water around them. Karen says, “We start with ball play and move into a series of songs, embedded in which are movements that are important to swimming, and then move into a skill set. The purpose of the skill set is to give parents a bag of tricks that they can draw upon no matter where they are with their children.”

A new six-week session begins February 26 and is offered Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday mornings. The nonmember price is $117, while the member price is $99. Another six-week session begins later this spring on April 17. For more information about the class or to register, visit the UVAC website.

Karen loves what she does with the little ones and their families. “As my responsibilities at UVAC have grown over the years, I'm still a bit smitten with the littles. I count it a privilege that I've been able to interact with so many babies and families of the Upper Valley over the years.” If you’re interested in learning more about the Parent and Me swim classes or any other offerings at UVAC, please reach out to her or the other staff members. They would love for you and your family to develop a healthy respect and love for the water!