SNAP is made possible by our wonderful team of volunteer helpers. Each swimmer needs a helper, and serve around 50 children each semester. SNAP helpers are expected to participate on a weekly basis for a minimum of 1 semester. Once we get to know you, you will be paired with one child for the semester. We hope that over the semester you and your swimmer will become good friends, learn lots from each other, and have fun. Interested in volunteering? Not sure? Give us a call or email!
Over time we hope that you will become familiar with
- The needs (physical, behavioral, social, cognitive) of your assigned swimmer.
- The safety limitations and restrictions of your swimmer.
- The emergency response and safety needs of your swimmer.
- Safe methods of pool entry and exit.
- The use of available equipment.
- Ways to motivate and encourage and learners.
- Ways children learn cognitively and physically.
- Ways to use games and play to encourage desired behaviors.
- Ways to use the supportive and resistive aspects of the water.
With your help, dedication and creativity we hope that our swimmers will demonstrate:
- Increased communication skills
- Appropriate behavior skills
- Increased cognitive development
- Improved self help skills
- Improved play skills
- Improved locomotor skills
- Improved swimming and water safety skills
- Improved confidence and self-esteem!
- That movement can be fun!
Training will be provided on an ongoing basis. If you’re a good swimmer and a happy person, you can help with SNAP. We will show you what to do. We provide support each day you’re in the water as well as training workshops and other ways to learn. We know that it takes a while to get the hang of it all, so be patient with yourself. When we meet, please let the director know what your learning style and needs are. As you become more experienced, more independent decision-making will be encouraged. We encourage you to ask questions, be safe, creative and playful, and have fun. Training consists of:
- Orientation at the beginning of each semester
- Water skills practice.
- 3-hour workshop in October & February.
- Pairing up with a veteran helper.
- Daily supervision from class supervisor.
- Training packet
- More class supervisor directed activities at the beginning of the semester.
- 10 minutes of instruction/ demonstration at class meeting.
- Opportunities to learn to run a class. (Ask the director if you are interested.)
SNAP helpers are expected to:
- Arrive on time. Bring your swimsuit and towel.
- Be consistent- your swimmer is looking forward to seeing you!
- Give notice when canceling a session. Please give as much notice as possible. We request a minimum of 24-hour notice, except when an emergency occurs
- Ask questions
- Be safe, fun, and therapeutic.
- Have a great time!
