Kids Group Swim Lessons
Small-group, 45-minute lessons for children — levels 1 through 5, every Sunday this fall.
Find your swimmer’s start time
Each lesson runs 45 minutes, once a week. Class times are grouped by level so families with siblings at different stages can arrive in the same window. Come a few minutes early on your first Sunday to check in on deck.
Ten Sundays, September to November
Lessons meet every Sunday from September 13 through November 22. There is no class on October 11 (Indigenous Peoples’ / Columbus Day weekend).
Prairie Lakes Aquatic Center
Lessons are held in the indoor, heated competition & lap pool at Prairie Lakes in Des Plaines — a bright, modern eight-lane facility that’s ideal for learning.
Des Plaines, IL 60016
Group Classes — FAQ
Everything parents usually ask about our children’s group swim sessions in Des Plaines. Tap a question to expand it.
01What ages can join?
Group classes are for children ages 4–15. Swimmers are grouped by skill level — not just age — so every child learns in a safe, encouraging group that matches their ability.
02How long is each class, and how often?
Every class is 45 minutes and meets once a week on Sundays for the length of the session.
03What is the class size?
We keep a 4:1 student-to-instructor ratio so each swimmer gets plenty of individual attention.
04When does the Des Plaines session run?
The fall session at Prairie Lakes runs Sundays, September 13 – November 22, 2026 — 10 lessons.
There is no class on October 11 (Indigenous Peoples’ / Columbus Day weekend), so the session skips that Sunday and finishes on November 22.
05How much does the session cost?
The 10-week fall session is $275, which includes one 45-minute class per week at your swimmer’s level.
06Where are classes held?
All Des Plaines classes are held at the Prairie Lakes Aquatic Center, 515 E. Thacker St, Des Plaines, IL 60016.
The main entrance is on the southwest side of the Prairie Lakes complex, accessible from Algonquin Road and Thacker Street.
07What days and times are available?
Classes meet Sunday mornings, grouped by level:
- Level 1 — 9:45 AM
- Levels 2 & 3 — 10:30 AM
- Levels 4 & 5 — 11:15 AM
Choose your swimmer’s level and time at registration, based on availability.
08How do I register?
Use the Register Now button above — it opens this session in Vagaro. Just navigate to the start week of the session (the week of September 13) to find the class and complete registration.
09What should my child bring?
- Swimsuit
- Towel
- Goggles (recommended)
- Swim cap (optional)
- A positive attitude and readiness to learn!
10Are make-up lessons available if we miss a class?
Make-ups are not guaranteed, but we’ll do our best to fit you in if space allows. Please let us know at least 24 hours before the class you’ll miss.
11What is your refund policy?
All sales are final, and group classes are non-refundable once the session begins. Transfers to another class may be possible if space is available.
12How are swimmers evaluated?
Instructors track each swimmer’s progress throughout the session. At the end, families receive a progress update and a recommendation for next-level placement.
13What if my child is a beginner or nervous in the water?
That’s completely normal! Our instructors specialize in building comfort and confidence through patient, encouraging, and fun instruction — Level 1 is designed for exactly this.
14Can siblings be in the same class?
Siblings can be placed together if they’re close in both age and skill level. Otherwise we recommend separate levels so each child can progress at their own pace.
15What happens if a class is canceled?
If we ever cancel for pool closure or weather, we’ll notify you right away and offer a make-up or class credit depending on the situation.
16How will I get updates and reminders?
You’ll receive automated confirmation and reminder emails before classes begin. Please check your inbox (and spam folder) for messages from Lakeside Swim School.
Still have questions?
We’re happy to help with placement or anything else — call 312-718-8614 or email info@lakesideswimschool.com.
Reserve your swimmer’s spot
Group sizes are kept small, so spots fill quickly. Register online to lock in your level and time for the fall session.