Bear Paddle Swim School - Florence

Luke Yaegel _{on Google}

Mar 23rd, 2024

Front Desk Friendliness: 0/5
Swim Instructor: 4/5
Parking: 1/5
Seating: 1/5 (hardwood bench seating)
My sons experience: 5/5
Tonight was a free consultation for our 4 year old son. Parking was extremely limited and delayed us. We walked in 2 mins late. The front desk attendant passive aggressively mentioned an issue with our tardiness several times.
The swim instructor was great with our son, but after the session we stood there waiting for a follow-up, feedback, next steps, etc. that never came. She just went back into the water and looked in another direction.
When going the front desk, I waiting several minutes standing there, trying to be obvious and being seemingly ignored, while the attendant was chatting with a coworker. Again, no follow-up, no asking for our business, no next steps, etc.
To be clear, there were no customers with the instructor when we arrived nor was anyone waiting behind us once the session was over which confused me as to why we were given such a hard time about being 2 mins late. Most places have a short grace period for this.
My son absolutely loved the experience. Sadly, because of the reasons listed above, an opportunity for the school to acquire a new customer has been lost and my son will not get to have his fun here. We will be actively seeking another swim school for our needs.
Thank you.

Donna Hoh _{on Google}

Aug 6th, 2023

My grandson learned to swim-very slowly, as the lessons are only 30 minutes. Something that could have been learned over a summer was stretched out over two years. Beware the hidden fees. They recently charged me a new "activity fee" that I did not authorize. The 30 day cancellation policy requires cancellation in writing, not by phone. Their business practices are structured toward making the most money from the clients, not toward customer service.

Jillian Booth _{on Google}

Jul 22nd, 2023

We love coach Abby at the Florence location! She was super interactive, fun, and my daughter showed amazing growth in just one session. Thanks, coach Abby!

Chris Greenwood _{on Google}

Jul 16th, 2023

We have been so incredibly satisfied with our Bear Paddle experience so far. Our sons instructor is Emelia Warren. She has went above and beyond in her instruction. With our son starting lessons later than preferred, leading to a lot more fear of the water, she has demonstrated amazing patience, for which we are so grateful. He loves to swim now. A year ago, that would have seemed so unlikely to happen any time soon. Thank you Emelia and Bear Paddle Swim School!! We are so excited to watch him continue to grow in his confidence and skill with your expert instruction!