How to Choose the Right Swimming Programme for Your Child in the UAE: 7 Things Every Parent Should Look For
- katyroseconroy
- Nov 20
- 3 min read
Choosing the Right Swimming Programme for Your Child in the UAE
Swimming is one of the most valuable life skills you can give your child — especially in a country surrounded by beaches, pools, and year-round sunshine. But with so many options in the UAE, how do you know which swimming programme is genuinely right for your child?
Here are 7 key things every parent should look for, and how our approach at STORM Academy ensures your child gets the safest, most effective and most enjoyable progress possible.
Qualified, Experienced Coaches Who Understand Child Development
Look for programmes where coaches are certified, experienced with children, and trained to teach technique safely. Coaching isn’t just about swimming fast — it’s about developing confidence and correct mechanics from day one.
At STORM Academy, our coaches are experienced swimmers, certified instructors and child-centred educators who prioritise safety, confidence and correct technique. Every child gets individual attention, even in group sessions. We invite everyone to a free assessment with one of these qualified coaches.
Small Class Sizes for Maximum Progress
Overcrowded classes make it hard for children to receive proper instruction. We keep class sizes intentionally small, ensuring personalised coaching and faster progress. Every child is seen, supported and developed at their own pace.
A Clear, Structured Progressed Swimming Programme for Your Child
Parents should choose a programme that has transparent levels, measurable milestones and clear pathways from water confidence to advanced technique. STORM Academy follow a structured level-based programme with simple, trackable progression steps. Parents always know what their child is working on and what comes next.
Safety Standards You Can Trust
Water safety is non-negotiable — especially in the UAE, where pool time is a huge part of family life.
At STORM Academy, water safety is at the heart of everything we do. We deliver Rookie Lifeguard training and Water Safety workshops year-round, building confident swimmers who know how to stay safe around water. We even hold a Guinness World Record for the largest water safety talk, so parents can rest assured it’s something we take seriously, not just during lessons, but as a life skill every child should carry with them.
Engaging, Fun Sessions That Build Confidence
Kids learn best when they’re enjoying themselves. Look for programmes that make learning fun while still focusing on skill development.
Our sessions are play-based, positive and confidence-building. We balance skill learning with fun challenges that keep children excited to come back each week.
Consistency of Coaching and Communication With Parents
Parents should feel informed, supported and part of the journey.
STORM Academy pride ourselves on clear communication, lesson updates and approachable coaches.
A Community That Motivates Children to Keep Improving
Swimming is more than a weekly lesson — it’s a journey. A good programme should create a supportive environment where children feel part of something bigger.
Our swimmers become part of a lively, encouraging community. From term-based progress to long-term development, we create an environment where kids thrive, feel confident and stay motivated.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Programme That Helps Your Child Thrive
Selecting the right swim programme can shape your child’s confidence, safety and long-term love for the water. Whether your child is just starting or aiming to refine their technique, the right environment makes all the difference.
At STORM Academy, we focus on small groups, experienced coaches, structured progression and a supportive community — the key ingredients for helping every child become a strong, confident swimmer.