Registration Starts for Colorful Spring 2014 Semester

For those seeking to get off their couches and jump into something “colorful” this spring, a class at the YWCA Princeton might just be the answer. Registration is now open for more than 200 spring classes – some educational, some physical, and some just plain fun. Most classes begin March 24th and run through mid-June.  
For the public school children who have their upcoming spring break, the YWCA is running a day camp from 8am to 6pm providing peace of mind for working parents. Children will indulge in swimming, cooperative games, arts and crafts, and other activities.
American Red Cross Learn-to-Swim Swim Classes 
Recognized as a leader in aquatics and grooming generations of lifeguards, the YWCA has offered American Red Cross Learn-to-Swim, Lifeguarding, and Water Safety Instruction classes for decades. Lifeguard training is great for teens considering summer work at camps, public pools, or the beach this summer and the course begins March 20th.
Each level of the Learn-to-Swim program includes training in basic water safety and helping others in an emergency, in addition to stroke development. With an indoor year-round heated pool, there is an opportunity to develop critical swim skills before the summer season. Swim classes are offered at both its Princeton facility and at West Windsor-Plainsboro High School North.
“It is important for everyone, whatever their age, to have water skills and before summer is the time to acquire them,” shares Diane Hasili, YWCA Princeton spokesperson. “Our commitment to providing swim skills in a safe, nurturing environment has empowered thousands of swimmers over many decades. We have a wide range of programming for different ages and skill levels. Children as young as 4 months can enroll in the Waterbabies classes. Parent/Toddler classes provides young ones with a trusted partner and adults can enroll in adult swim skill classes, water exercise. Or, consumers can choose a pay as you go “lap swim” option.”
GED, Citizenship Prep, Breast Cancer 
Free GED and Citizen Prep classes are available to the public and have proven successful since their launch. The Breast Cancer Resource Center, open year-round, has a number of valuable support groups and wellness classes available for those living with and through breast cancer.
ESL & American Businss Culture — new!
Those seeking to enhance their work skills for whom English is not their first language or are  recent immigrants might have interest in a brand new class – American Business Culture. The course examines on-the-job customs and courtesies, advanced resume writing, overcoming cultural and organizational differences, handling criticism, moving up the ladder, and how to adapt to different business practices. Employees may also arrange for employee group participation.
Free Parenting Workshop
“Common Sense Parenting”, is also open to the public at no charge. The course will be held weekly between May 1 and June 12th and is designed to provide a variety of techniques and tools to parents of toddlers and young children. A complimentary parenting book and child care will be provided. Space is limited and pre-registration is required.
Other YWCA Classes
Dance, crafts, sewing for children, watercolor, book groups, and adaptive programs are also offered.   Martial arts for kids and adults include aikido, Brazilian jiu jitsu, taekwondo, and judo. The programs are open to all levels and all ages.  
To Register 
For a complete list of classes and upcoming community events, visit YWCA Princeton, 59 Paul Robeson Place, or www.ywcaprinceton.org. To register or speak with a program director for more information, call (609) 497-2100 ext. 0. General membership is open to all men, women, children, families, and college students regardless of their residence. Each year, the YWCA provides more than $500,000 in financial assistance through its Pearl Bates Scholarship Fund or other programs.