FAQ

When is tuition due?

Tuition is due in full at the time of registration. Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express and cash are accepted. We do not accept any checks.

Is there an annual registration fee?

A $20 nonrefundable annual registration fee is due at the time of registration for the first semester of each calendar year for each participating student.

Is the Waiver/Release of Liability Form required?

Under no circumstances will a student be permitted to participate until the waiver/release of liability form is signed.

Are coach schedules subject to change?

Yes. We do not guarantee coaches and schedules are subject to change. All coaches adhere to the same curriculum to ensure consistency.

What if my child misses a class?

Due to operational costs, no refunds, credits or make-ups are issued. We are not a discount swim program. However, an absence will not prevent your child from progressing to the next level, if he/she is ready to do so.

This is our first lesson with PSS. What do we do?

After signing in at the front desk, please have your child change and use the restroom facilities prior to class. Please do not send any child onto the deck without a coach or parent escort.

What should we bring to class?

A swimsuit, goggles, fins, and a towel should accompany your child to class. Tiebacks for children with long hair will help them swim without distraction of hair in their face.

Are goggles & fins required?

Although they’re not required, goggles are highly recommended, as many children have a difficult time putting their face in the water without them. In addition, approximately 60% of one’s balance comes through vision, and the use of goggles increases coordination during swimming. Furthermore, swim goggles also helps young children become comfortable with the water at a faster rate.

Swim fins are required for all classes. Fins develop ankle flexibility and assist with a straight kick and leg strength. Kicking is one of the most critical skills to successfully learning each stroke.

Am I permitted to return retail product(s)?

All returns must be accompanied by the original sales receipt and in the undamaged original packaging. Returns must be made within fifteen (15) days of the sale. Clothing, swim suits, and swim diapers are NON-returnable.

What can I do to help my child progress?

Please be considerate and encourage your children. Our belief is that the process of learning to swim is a journey for children. We give students the time and skills they need to progress at their own pace. Coaches individualize within each class, keeping all children challenged. You can have your children practice blowing bubbles in the bathtub, or performing their kicking while watching television. Or better yet…swim together.

What do I do if my child is crying?

Remain calm. A certain amount of crying is expected with some children. Some children get fearful in a new environment. PSS coaches are trained to comfort fearful children. We will ask parents to cooperate by hiding out of eyesight in extreme cases. We have 29 years of experience and we know this method enables the child to focus on the class. Trust us.

What do I do if my child falls in or jumps in without instructor approval?

If your child falls into the water accidentally or purposefully jumps in, stay calm, do not run out and jump into the pool!  We do not want to teach our children to go into panic mode.  This rarely ever happens but just in case it does: the PSS instructors have their small class sizes and our distances to children are safe.  The PSS has the safety of our children first.  When a child falls into the water accidentally or jumps in purposefully, the PSS coaches or deck assistants pick up your child ASAP which is never more than 6 seconds.  PSS uses the ’6 Second Rule.’  For more information on this policy, please click here.

What if two students or less are enrolled in a class?

Potomac Swim School reserves the right to cancel any class with two or less students enrolled. We will try to accommodate you by rescheduling the class or issuing a credit or refund.

Does the pool close at the sight of lightning or other severe weather conditions?

In the event of a weather emergency such as lightning, the pool will remain closed for 30 minutes following the last incident of lightning. Dry lands such as stretching, cardiovascular activities, and proper swim stoke practice will substitute swim lessons. Other weather emergencies will be evaluated on a day-to-day basis. No refunds, credits, or make-ups will be issued for cancellations due to severe weather conditions.

Can my child swim with a medical condition?

A student with a known medical condition must have a signed medical release from the student’s physician prior to the first day of class. Ear infections are a common reason why children are restricted from participating in swimming lessons. Since medical professionals have different opinions about swimming, ear infections, and tubes, please consult with your physician.

If my child has an infection or disease, can he/she enter the pool?

For the health of all children, it is recommended by pediatricians and other doctors that children with a fever, rash or any other symptom of an infection NOT participate in an aquatic program. Infections are usually spread among children by direct contact (touching, sneezing, changing rooms, etc.) and NOT through the water. Student participation will be restricted if there is any contagious illness. Children with diarrhea will not be admitted; a complete shutdown of the pool will be necessary should a hygienic mishap occur.

For policies and information on infectious skin disease, click here.

Should I send my child to class if they have an illness?

Avoid sending your child to class if they have an illness or open sores. Children who do not feel well during class will be sent home.

What if my child breaks a bone?

Talk with your doctor about a waterproof cast for your child. Children can continue to participate in our program with a waterproof cast as the coach can work with your child on specific skills. For example, if a child has a broken leg, the coach will work with your child on their upper body skills such as breathing and arms. If a child has a broken arm, the coach will work with your child on their kicking. Many warm water pools are often used for physical therapy. Although we are not doctors, our warm water pool can be a great source of healing. Consult your physician.