The YMCA of Niagara is committed to providing a safe and enjoyable aquatic experience. The following age restriction admission criteria for under 10 years of age are based on the Ontario Health Regulations and the YMCA Canada Child Protection Policy. Waterslide criteria is based on TSSA requirements.

YMCA Swim Admission Criteria:

Under 6 years

  • Must be directly supervised by an adult/guardian (min 16 years of age) in the water within arms reach.
  • Maximum 2 children : 1 adult  ratio
  • All children not fully toilet trained must wear specialty swim diapers or rubber pants.

Under 10 Years, Unable to Pass Swim Test

  • If not able to successfully complete the facility swim test, children must be accompanied by an adult/guardian (min 16 years) in the water in the same area of the pool.
  • Maximum 4 children : 1 adult ratio

Under 10 Years, Passes Leisure Pool Swim Test

  • Must be supervised by adult/guardian (min. 16 years of age) in the pool area [visual contact]. Can swim in Leisure Pool only.
  • Leisure Pool Swim Test –  2 widths uninterrupted, no touching.
  • Maximum 8 children : 1 adult ratio

Under 10 Years, Passes Lane Pool Swim Test

  • Must be supervised by adult/guardian (min. 16 years of age) in the pool area [visual contact]. Can swim in Both Pools.
  • Lane Pool Swim Test – Jump in deep water, tread water 1 minute, swim 25m continuous.
  • Maximum 8 children : 1 adult ratio

Family Swim

  • All swimmers under age 16 must be accompanied in the water by a parent/guardian (min 16 years of age).
  • Age restriction criteria apply.

Lane Swim

  • Is for swimmers 13 years and older.

Medical Conditions

  • All swimmers with a serious medical condition should inform the lifeguard on duty.

Family & Open Swim

  • Family swim allows parents and their children the opportunity to enjoy the pool together.

Leisure pool spray features will be available during family times. Open Swim is available for non-members for a fee. For a complete listing of current Family and Open swim times available, visit one of our membership branches or check one of our current schedules.

* Those with a serious medical condition should be accompanied by another individual with knowledge of their condition. Swimmers should inform the lifeguard on duty. ** For facilities with a waterslide, patrons must complete Lane Pool Swim Test and be 48”tall to ride in Niagara Falls.