Guppies No More

The twins graduated yesterday from Guppies to Minnows. They have taken a lot of swimming lessons and have advanced steadily. The YMCA has two divisions for children. For children 3 to 5 years of age there are four levels; Pike, Eel, Ray & Starfish, we progressed through each of these. There are six levels for youth swimmers ages 6 through 12 years old; Polliwog, Guppy, Minnow, Fish, Flying Fish and Shark. As the levels increase it becomes increasingly more difficult to advance, so I was pleasantly surprised today when the instructor informed me that both boys had passed their exam. Guppies have to feel comfortable with their face in the water and are able to swim 15-20 feet without a floatation device. They can do front, back and side strokes, some rotary breathing and beginner’s breaststroke. Davey is an especially strong swimmer, but both boys’ bodies have benefited from this excellent exercise. They are cut!