AquAbility 

AquAbility at the Y supports people with diverse abilities through swimming and water-based therapy programs that increase independence, ability, confidence, health, and well-being. Click here to find all of our adaptive and inclusive programming.

Swim Lessons

Swimming is a critical life skill that can provide endless fun and excitement. The Y offers swim lessons beginning at 6 months old to enhance water safety, give swimmers confidence, and make everyone more capable and safe around water. Learning to swim opens up opportunities for social interaction, recreation, and participation in water-based activities like enjoying so many of Idaho’s lakes and rivers.

Parent/Child Lessons

Infants and toddlers from 6-36 months, accompanied by a guardian, learn to be comfortable in the water and develop swim readiness skills through fun and confidence-building experiences, while parents learn about water safety, drowning prevention, and the importance of supervision.

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Preschool Lessons

Children from 3-5 learn personal water safety and basic swimming competency by learning two benchmark skills: “Swim, Float, Swim” and “Jump, Push, Turn, Grab”. Activities, games, and drills geared to reinforce learning are used as swimmers progress in this skill-based approach to swimming.

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School Age Lessons

Children from 5-12 learn personal water safety and basic swimming competency by learning two benchmark skills: “Swim, Float, Swim” and “Jump, Push, Turn, Grab”. Activities, games, and drills geared to reinforce learning are used as swimmers progress in this skill-based approach to swimming.

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Teen & Adult

Swimming is a lifelong skill, and it is never too late to start. Participants are taught the recommended skills for safe water habits, underwater exploration, and how to swim to safety. Activities, games, and drills are incorporated to support each swimmer on their journey and toward their goals.

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Diving, Water Polo, and More

Learn about the sports of Diving, Water Polo, SCUBA or Competitive Swimming with additional programs at the West Boise YMCA and Boise City Aquatics Center.

Become a Lifeguard or Swim Instructor

At the YMCA, lifeguards are thoroughly trained in CPR, first aid, and emergency response techniques. These are skills that not only apply to the job but are also valuable throughout life. Knowing how to respond in emergencies, perform CPR, and administer first aid can make a crucial difference in various situations, both on and off the job. We are hiring lifeguards year-round at all branch locations.

  • Competitive Pay – hourly, lifeguard wages also include free YMCA membership privileges and seasonal increases
  • Flexible Hours – part-time, shift-work, and full-time opportunities at all Treasure Valley locations
  • Future Work – lifeguards in good standing can return for re-hiring opportunities
  • Growth Opportunity – start and continue your career with the Y
  • No prior experience is required for pre-hire and certification!

Lifeguard and Swim Instructor certifications include Health and Safety Institute’s certifications in Basic Life Support (CPR), First Aid, and Emergency Oxygen Delivery. This suite of certifications is a great way to jump-start a future career in first responder and other medical fields. The Y will pay for the classes and certifications once the hiring process is complete.