This is a very busy YMCA with a large number of children participating in our programs, especially gymnastics and swimming. Because the safety of these children is our primary concern, a limited parent observation policy is in place. Parent will have the opportunity to attend the final class session, which occurs once ever 14 weeks.

Listed below are the main reasons that we limit parent observation:

1. Additional people in the gym or pool creates extra noise and movement which distracts many children from their lesson. When they are distracted and not concentrating on what they are doing, safety becomes more of an issue. Gymnastics coordination and swimming drills require the children’s complete attention. Anything diminishing their attention level compromises efforts to make the program as safe as possible.
2. Parents often bring their other children with them during observation. At times, the extra children dart about the teaching area, creating a safety hazard for themselves as well as others. In the pool, having to watch unsupervised children in the bleachers or on the pool deck means the teachers must give their class less than complete attention – a real safety hazard considering the potential danger of the water.
3. Many children do not seem to listen as well when a parent is present. There is a tendency to show off or not listen to the instructor. The instructor then may need to spend more time disciplining, taking away from the quality of their instruction.
4. Just as some adults are not comfortable with people watching as they are learning something new, some children feel the same way. They may feel uncomfortable or embarrassed if they think they are not performing as well as someone else.
5. Finally, children want more than anything else to please their parents. When parents are present, the children look to them for approval or acknowledgment. Sometimes parents try to correct their children, or visibly show their displeasure with their children’s efforts. We feel that the children should not be put under this pressure, and we want their experience to remain as pleasant as possible.