Program
Swim School Groups
Overview
Adapted Swimming – Private Lessons
Learning to swim with safe one-on-one coaching, tailored to each child's needs.
Thank you for choosing Natation Gatineau!
Our private lessons are exclusively for children aged 3 to 17 with an autism spectrum disorder or an intellectual disability, for whom joining a group lesson is a challenge or is not possible. Please note that applications that do not meet these criteria will be automatically declined.
As spots are limited, this format was designed to give these children the opportunity to learn to swim with a dedicated instructor, in a safe setting adapted to their pace. Each lesson lasts 30 minutes, regardless of the level.
In the spirit of our swim school, the child learns the basics of swimming through a progression from level to level, with active and safe lessons. They develop comfort in the water and independence as a young swimmer.
Registration process
Registration for private lessons takes place in three steps. Please complete a form for each child who would like a private lesson.
The form will be available starting August 19 at 9 a.m.
Click the “Application form” button and complete the form — one per child.
The program coordinator will contact you to review your application and check the available schedules.
If your application is accepted, the coordinator will send you an Amilia registration link, along with the assignment of an instructor, a time and a training location.
Skills and expected outcomes
The child learns to feel good in the water, at their own pace, confident with their instructor.
Gradual acquisition of the fundamental aquatic skills, according to each child's starting level.
Gradual development of independence as a young swimmer, respecting each child's abilities.
Program details
- 3 to 17 years
- 1 time / week
- Durée par session : 30 minutes
- Pool: De l’Île High School
Schedule
Fall Session 2026
| De l’Île High School | |
|---|---|
| Session | Sunday |
| 1 | 26 September |
| 2 | 4 October |
| 3 | ANNULÉ 11 OCTOBRE (Action de Grâce) |
| 4 | 18 October |
| 5 | 25 October |
| 6 | 1er November |
| 7 | 8 November |
| 8 | 15 November |
| 9 | 22 November |
Partner recognition
A program made possible thanks to our partners
This private-lesson program was made possible thanks to financial support from the Government of Quebec, under the Financial Assistance Program for local and regional physical-activity initiatives. It also benefits from the contribution and collaboration of Loisir sport Outaouais.
FAQ
We've thought of your questions
My child has never taken swimming lessons. What level should I register them in?
We ask all new swimmers to complete an in-water evaluation so our team can determine their level. You can book a time slot here: book your evaluation.
At what age can my child take swimming lessons on their own?
Our first swim-school level without parents starts at age 3.
What does my child need to bring for their swimming lesson?
Your child must wear a bathing suit. For the lowest levels (Parent-baby 1 and 2, Purple and Red), your child will need a flotation device (we can lend one at the pool). For the middle levels (Yellow and Bronze), we suggest a simple pair of swim goggles (not a diving mask). For the more advanced levels (Silver and Gold), we ask the child to have a pair of swim goggles, a swim cap and a pair of swim fins.
Where can I get swim fins?
Fins must be made of silicone for training, not the plastic type used for diving. You can get them from our supplier Team Aquatic Supplies. There is a store in Ottawa at 2730 Iris Street to try sizes. You can also come to our annual equipment sale in September to purchase them.
Does my child need to bring their own flotation device?
You may bring your own flotation device if you are in a Parent-baby 1 or 2, Purple or Red group. Otherwise, we have back floats that we can lend at the pool.
Can I watch my child’s lesson from the poolside?
We ask parents to drop off their child at the poolside a maximum of 5 minutes before the start of the lesson. You will then need to go up to the stands (available at the Le Carrefour, De l’Île, Mont-Bleu and Gatineau Sports Centre pools) to watch your child’s lesson. You may pick up your child at the poolside at the end of their lesson.
Is there a family changing room at each pool?
The Gatineau Sports Centre pool has a family changing room. For all the other high-school pools, there is no family changing room. Children aged 8 and under, accompanied by a chaperone (aged 16 and over) of the opposite sex, may use the changing room matching the chaperone’s sex. Children aged 9 and over must use the changing room matching their own sex. The chaperone must remain nearby in the building in case of need. It is forbidden to bring food, drinks, chewing gum or glass containers into the changing rooms and the pool area. The use of cell phones and cameras is strictly forbidden in the changing rooms. Due to the presence of children and a diverse clientele, discretion is required in the changing rooms. Accordingly, wearing a bathrobe, underwear, a bathing suit or a towel is mandatory when moving around. Cabins are also available to change in. Staff reserve the right to refuse access to, or to remove, anyone who breaks the rules or proper conduct, or whose behaviour compromises the safety and well-being of users. For the rules in effect in the City of Gatineau facilities, please see the following link.
How can I know if my child is progressing in their swimming lessons?
At the end of each session, our instructors fill out a report booklet that will automatically be sent to you by email. You will then have the details of their progress.