I started Little Fishes Swim School to provide a place where parents would enjoy spending time bonding with their babies, and where children will develop a foundation for a lifetime of safe swimming.
I learned to swim when I was very young, and because of that, I developed a lifelong love of the water. I have taught swimming at various summer camps and worked at a private swim school. I am Red Cross certified as a Water Safety Instructor and also certified in Adult, Infant and Child CPR. I am a member of The American Swimming Coaches Association, and hold their Level 1 and Level 2 coaching certifications, a member of the World Aquatic Babies Congress, and an American Learn to Swim Teacher.
More importantly, being a Mother has given me an even greater understanding of youngsters and how to entice their participation, engage each child that has different learning styles, and develop their trust and confidence.
Coach Ruthie
Being an instructor at Little Fishes Swim School gives me the opportunity to combine two of my passions, swimming and early childhood education.
I began swimming competitively at a young age, then became a lifeguard and taught all levels of swimming for over eight years. I am Red Cross certified as a Water Safety Instructor and certified in Adult Infant and Child CPR and First Aid.
I have a B.A. in Elementary and Early Childhood Education and a Master's in Teaching. I have been a classroom teacher in preschool, kindergarten, first and second grades, and the Director of Services for children with special needs. Working in education for over thirteen years has given me the experience to motivate kids and help them develop their confidence and skills.
I love the challenge of assessing each child's physical and emotional requirements and helping them to help themselves succeed with developmentally appropriate activities in a safe and nurturing environment.
Coach Laura
With Little Fishes' unique program, I am able to use my education as well as my experience to teach children to swim. I enjoy helping our kids build confidence and skills so they will enjoy swimming as much as I do.
I have a Bachelor's Degree in Recration Management with minors in Aquatics and Psychology. For over half of my life, I have been teaching swimming at camps, schools and community centers.
I am a certified Red Cross Water Safety Instructor and Lifeguard. I also have certifications in Adapted Aquatics, First Aid and CPR.
Coach Stephanie
My mom first introduced me to the water when I was six days old and since then, it has been impossible to keep me out. Even now I'm in the water while finishing my Bachelor's Degree in Education from St. Louis University.
I have been swimming competitively for twelve years, beginning with my freshman year at Ladue High School and continuing on the swim teams at Kansas University and St. Louis University. My first job was as a lifeguard, and then I began teaching swimming at camps, community centers and clubs. I have coached summer league teams and led the Chesterfield Athletic Club to a 1st place season.
I am Red Cross certified as a Water Safety Instructor and certified in Adult Infant and Child CPR and First Aid. At Little Fishes, I am able to share my enthusiasm for swimming with our students, and help the next generation of St. Louis swimmers thrive.
Coach Lizzie