Little Dipper Aquatic Center, Concord

Most of the instructors at Little Dipper Aquatic Center are also Little Dipper graduates. Having earned a diploma from the swimming school, these teachers have first-hand knowledge of the Little Dipper method. Above all, they know how to prioritize the curriculum: safety instruction comes first, floating lessons come second, and cannonball tutorials come right after naval-artillery demonstrations. At the outset of lessons, teachers introduce participants to the pool, a 93-degree basin that brims with salt. Then, they guide swimmers through exercises, adjusting the level of instruction to suit the group's age or ability level—classes are available for students aged 3 months and beyond, and special-needs students are welcome. As teachers conduct lessons, parents and siblings can observe from an air-conditioned viewing room. In addition to group and private swim classes, the Little Dipper staff hosts youth parties.