July 2026 · Camp Sycamore Valley

Learn to Swim

A two-part progressive series for ages 5–14. Build water confidence with D1 swimmer Grace Ackerman.

$25

per session

2

sessions available

Young swimmers learning at pool edge during lesson

5–14

Years old

The Curriculum

Skills for a lifetime in the water

Each session builds progressively, focusing on fundamentals that create confident, safe swimmers.

01

Water Comfort

Building confidence through positive, supportive experiences. Reducing fear and creating joy in the pool.

02

Safety Skills

Essential water safety fundamentals that every young swimmer needs. Life skills that matter.

03

Body Position & Breathing

Proper streamline, floating, and breathing techniques that form the foundation of every stroke.

04

Early Stroke Fundamentals

Kicking, arm movements, and coordination—the building blocks for independent swimming.

Young swimmer learning to float

Every swimmer starts somewhere

Choose Your Session

Two sessions,
one goal

Session 1

Day One

Wednesday, July 8th

6:00 – 7:00 PM
Water comfort basics
Floating & breathing
Kicking fundamentals
Best Value
Both Sessions

Full Series

July 8th & July 20th

Two 1-hour sessions
Progressive skill building
Complete fundamentals
Early stroke development
Session 2

Day Two

Monday, July 20th

6:00 – 7:00 PM
Skill reinforcement
Stroke fundamentals
Independent swimming
Grace Ackerman, Division I swimmer at Purdue University

D1 Athlete

Purdue Swimming

Your Instructor

Meet Grace

Grace Ackerman is a Division I collegiate swimmer with extensive competitive and developmental experience. During the 2024–25 season, she competed primarily in backstroke, posting season-best times at the Big Ten Championships.

A five-time All-American and 14-time all-state honoree at Grand Haven High School, Grace helped lead her program to multiple state titles while graduating in the top 10% of her class.

She brings patience, energy, and high-level technical knowledge—creating a positive environment where young swimmers build skills, confidence, and a lifelong love for the water.

5× All-American Big Ten Competitor Junior Nationals Cut

In Action

Grace in the water

Competing at the highest level of collegiate swimming.

Grace Ackerman swimming backstroke in competition
Grace Ackerman swimming butterfly stroke
Grace Ackerman preparing at starting block

The Location

Camp Sycamore Valley

A beautiful setting where young swimmers learn in a supportive, natural environment surrounded by nature.

8439 Indiana 26

Lafayette, IN 47905

July 8 & July 20, 2026

6:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Get Directions
Young swimmer at starting block preparing to dive

Questions?

Frequently asked

What ages are these sessions for?

These sessions are designed for swimmers ages 5–14 of all experience levels. Whether your child is new to the water or looking to strengthen their fundamentals, they'll benefit from the progressive curriculum.

Do I need to register for both sessions?

No! You can register for one session or both. However, we recommend both sessions for the full developmental experience, as each session builds on the previous one. Plus, you save $5 when you register for both.

What should my child bring?

Please bring a swimsuit, goggles, towel, and water bottle. Swim caps are optional but encouraged.

What skill level is required?

These are Learn-to-Swim sessions open to all experience levels, including complete beginners. The curriculum focuses on building water comfort, safety skills, and fundamentals, so no prior swimming experience is necessary.

Can parents stay and watch?

Yes! Parents are welcome to stay and watch from the designated viewing area. For younger children especially, having a parent nearby can help them feel more comfortable.

Ready to make a splash?

Spots are limited. Give your child the gift of water confidence this summer at Camp Sycamore Valley.

View Sessions & Register