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1391 Martine Avenue
Scotch Plains, NJ 07076
P: 908-889-8800
F: 908-889-4070

Aquatics

The Aquatics program at the JCC is one of the best in the area drawing people from our larger community because of its excellent reputation. Our staff of American Red Cross certified swim instructors has taught thousands of children and adults to swim, improve their strokes and love the water. Children who attend Camp Yachad and our Early Childhood programs benefit from our aquatics instruction as part of their camp or school experience. The Barracudas, our award-winning competitive swim team, is an excellent way for children to build confidence, stay fit and be part of a fun-loving, socially responsible group. The Talmud (the central text of Rabbinic Judaism) lists three specific requirements that parents must teach their children. One is teaching them how to swim – ensuring that they have the basic skills necessary to survive. The JCC is a proud partner in this endeavor. 

Contact [email protected] or 908-889-8800 x219.

Indoor Pool Hours

Monday - Thursday 6:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.*
Friday 6:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday 7:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
*From October - March, indoor pool is closed 5:00 - 7:30 p.m. on Monday - Thursday for swim team practice

Outdoor Pool Hours

Monday - Thursday: 4:00 - 7:45 p.m.
Friday: 4:00 - 5:45 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday: 11:00 a.m. - 4:45 p.m.

june pool schedule   July Indoor Pool Schedule   July Outdoor Pool Schedule

Aquatic Items for Sale at the Member Services Desk

  • Infant rubber swim pants
  • Goggles
  • Swim caps
  • Swim team and parent t-shirts (during competitive swim season only)
  • Locker rentals
  • Locks 

Aquatics Policies

Aquatics Policies

Make-up Classes and Credits
Missed swim classes for group lessons can be made up only once per session with a doctor's note, and approved by the aquatics leadership team. Make-up swim lessons are only offered if space is available. The Aquatics Department will make every effort to accommodate the request but make-up requests are not guaranteed. Credits will not be issued for missed classes. 

Private Lesson Scheduling
Scheduling is based on the student's and instructor’s availability. Swim student must notify instructor and/or facility four hours prior to scheduled class to ensure proper reschedule. This allows swim instructors to adjust their schedule and plan accordingly. Failure to do so in the four-hour time frame will result in forfeiting the swim lesson.

Choosing the Right Swim Class/Level
If you have questions about the right swim class or swim level for your child, please request a free swim evaluation. This procedure will ensure that your child will be taught at the appropriate level. It only takes a couple of minutes for an instructor to evaluate a child’s ability. Contact our Aquatics Department at [email protected] if you would like assistance choosing the right level.

What Do I Need for Lessons?
Children under the age of 3 (and older if not toilet trained) need to wear a disposable swim diaper and rubber pants under their bathing suit. Also, be sure to bring a towel or two. (The JCC provides towel service for $2.50 at the Member Services Desk.) Additionally, goggles are recommended, and may also be purchased at the JCC Member Services Desk. 

*Attention: Parents/Caregivers*
To help your child feel more secure, you are welcome to remain in the pool area during the first day of the class session and again on the last day of the class session. Please do not hover over your child’s class. This will hinder the swim instructor’s ability to keep students engaged in swim class. It is suggested that parents wait in the pool area for only the first five minutes and the last five minutes of class in the interim weeks.  This will allow your swimmer to effectively transition and focus on learning swim skills

Supervision Ratios
In order to ensure the safety of all participants, the following supervision ratios in the pools and pool areas must be maintained:

  • All children under the age of 12 MUST have adult supervision while in the pool area or in the pools
  • Children age 6 and under must have 1:1 adult supervision while in the pools. Meaning, an adult must be within arm’s reach of the child. For our indoor pool and larger outdoor pool, this specifically means that the adult must be IN THE WATER with the child. For our smaller splash pool, the adult must be sitting on the edge of the pool, facing the child at all times.
  • Children ages 7-11 are to be supervised at a ratio of 1 adult per 5 children. Meaning, the adult must be ACTIVELY watching the child(ren).

Fitness Instruction, Personal Training and Sports Specific Training and Instruction

JCC members and guests are not allowed to bring in outside fitness instructors, personal trainers, sports trainers or instructors (i.e., basketball, weight lifting, swimming) to provide one-on-one or group training in the gymnasium, fitness center, basketball courts, aquatics area or anywhere on our campus.

The JCC employs certified trainers and instructors who conduct both private and small group training courses and clinics which are open to members and guests.

Members and Guests may not provide these services, whether free or paid to other members or guests. This includes virtual instructional training to members while they are physically present at the JCC. 

Essential Eligibility Criteria

Individuals applying for any swim program at the JCC must meet the following essential eligibility criteria:

  • Tolerate the environment without signs or symptoms of distress
  • Enter, remain in and exit the water safely without compromising their own safety or the safety of others
  • Bladder and bowel toilet-trained or wear leak proof rubber diaper/swim pants specifically designed for immersion in water which are securely fitted around waist and thighs
  • Swimmers participating in swim lessons must be able to follow simple instructions to maintain safety in the water and advance in skills

Bather Rules for Swimming Pools, Wading Pools, Hot Tubs and Spas
Updated July 2022

  1. All persons must shower before entering the water.
  2. No running! Deck is slippery when wet.
  3. Strollers, glass containers and food are prohibited on pool deck.
  4. No breath-holding games. This can lead to under water blackouts.
  5. Any conduct which endangers the safety and comfort of others shall be prohibited. This includes horse play, excessive splashing, etc.
  6. Children wearing swim aids (bubble/puddle jumper/noodle) must have direct supervision in the pool. Child must be with in arms reach of an adult at all times.
  7. Children under 12 years must be accompanied by an adult. Of-age person must be present on pool’s deck. Children 12 and older are allowed to independently reserve pool space.
  8. Children in diapers must wear diapers specially designed for immersion in water; swim diapers/rubber briefs must be securely fitted around waist and thighs.
  9. Everyone should be encouraged to use the restroom before entering the water. Immediately report any "accidents" you observe in the bathing waters to a lifeguard.
  10. Do not enter the water if you are experiencing or recovering from diarrhea or have had any signs or symptoms of a gastrointestinal (stomach) disease or viral issue in the past seven days.
  11. Any person showing evidence of any communicable skin disease, sore or inflamed eyes, cold, nasal or ear discharges or any other communicable disease shall be denied admission.
  12. Any person with excessive sunburn, open blisters, cuts or bandages shall be denied admission.
  13. No animals, except for service animals, shall be allowed in the swimming pools, splash pool, dressing rooms or other parts of the enclosure.
  14. Pools are closed during electrical storms. JCC policy is to remain closed 30 minutes after last sound of thunder or sight of lightning.
  15. Persons suspected of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol shall be prohibited from entering the water.

Thunder/Lightening Policy

  • If thunder/lightening is heard or seen, the JCC policy is to remain closed 30 minutes after last sound of thunder or sight of lightning.
  • If the forecast calls for bad weather, a decision about the pool opening will be posted on the JCC website. 

Sauna Policy

  • The Sauna is for JCC members and guests ages 18 and above.
  • Children - When exposed to excessive heat and high temperatures are susceptible to heat stroke and difficulties breathing.
  • Adults - Elevated temperatures can cause a significant decrease in blood pressure. Heart rate and metabolism can also increase dangerously. If you have diabetes, high blood pressure or are taking medications please consult with your physician before using the sauna.
  • Please DO shower before entering sauna and use suggested 15 minute usage.
  • Please DO NOT hang any anything in the sauna. This includes towels and any articles of clothing.
  • Please DO NOT pour liquid onto rocks. Failure to comply creates significant FIRE HAZARD.

Lockers/Locker Room Use

  • Children up to 5 years of age are allowed in the locker rooms with either parent.
  • Children 6-11 years of age are allowed in the same-gender locker rooms at the parent/caregiver’s discretion. The JCC reserves the right to require parent supervision on an individual basis.
  • A gender neutral bathroom is located in the locker room hallways and is available for parents who wish to change their children.
  • EATING IS PROHIBITED IN LOCKER ROOMS. PLEASE HELP US KEEP OUR LOCKER ROOMS CLEAN!
  • The JCC is not responsible for lost or stolen articles in the locker rooms, fitness center, gym, pool, etc. Please bring a lock (or you can purchase one at the front desk) for daily usage. Locks must be removed after each use to allow other members to use the lockers, except for those with reserved lockers.
  • Lockers are available for longer term rental – please see the Member Services Desk for details.  
  • Towel service is available for $2.50 per towel per usage. A towel service package is available for $240 annually for unlimited usage throughout the year.

Statement of Accommodation

The JCC of Central NJ is committed to accessibility and inclusion.  To request accommodations, please email [email protected] at least two weeks prior to an event.