• Programs and classes
• Types of Programs

What you learn in Bronze Cross training

This is a description of the curriculum you learn in Bronze Cross training. Consult with programs listed on our site to learn specifics of what they offer. 

Active surveillance. Kids are tasked with identifying potential hazards in and around the pool. They’re taught to observe closely, and to be responsible for what they see. 

Water rescue techniques. Students learn to perform water rescue techniques in a safe, efficient manner. They learn how to assist and treat non-fatal drowning victims and water blackouts. They’re also instructed to participate in two scenarios that simulate water emergencies.

Injury prevention and care. Performing resuscitation, treating wounds, and supporting shock victims is critical to training. Students learn safe and effective methods for each technique. 

Leadership skills. Not necessarily part of the curriculum, this may be the most critical thing they learn in the course. Bronze Cross training develops empathy, observation skills, adaptability, communication skills, and more. They learn to stay calm during high pressure situations, an asset both during the course, when lifeguarding, and in future employment. Students emerge from a set of leadership skills that sets them apart from other kids and teens. 

This benefits them personally, socially, academically, and professionally. (See more below.)

The benefits of Bronze Cross training

Aside from the actual certificate you receive, there are other benefits to this training. Here’s a quick glance over some of the ancillary advantages you gain that you might not be aware of. 

Prepares aspiring lifeguards. The Bronze Cross certificate allows kids to become assistant lifeguards. Once the course is completed, kids will have enhanced their in- and out-of-water skills, including rescuing, hazard awareness, and injury care. This preparation is also important for kids who are interested in careers like Emergency Medical Technician (EMTs), etc.

Preparation for other employment opportunities. Leadership is an important skill in many careers. Bronze Cross training teaches kids to be responsible, observant, quick-thinking, and a host of other skills. Harnessing these skills opens the door to employment opportunities like childcare, social work, medical work, managerial positions… the list goes on.

Superior cardio and fitness workout. Aquatic endurance training is a large part of Bronze Cross training. In order to qualify, students must be powerful swimmers, and training includes a lot of treading water, swimming, and practicing water rescues. You come out of the course fitter than ever!

Increased maturity. Rescue drills and scenarios presented in class accurately bring home to students the seriousness of their training. They grow in responsibility, independence, resilience, and more character traits kids need. While character development is an under-appreciated aspect of this and other experiences (especially by students), in the long run, it’s the most valuable. 

Related camps

Water sports camps  include activities as varied as surfing, kayaking, and canoeing. The aquatic education teens receive in Bronze Cross training can help them enjoy these camps and programs all the more. 

Leadership camp is an ideal next step for kids who feel driven to help and lead others. This type of camp further enhances these skills out of the water, and can be another ‘feather in the cap’ for teens and kids with high career aspirations. 

Sports camp is ideal for kids who relish the physical activities associated with swimming and Bronze Cross training. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How many Bronze cross courses are there?
There are 6 programs specializing in Bronze Cross. In addition, there are 2 programs offering bronze cross as an activity. Use the filters to narrow by age and program type, then click on matched programs to see daily activities, dates, rates and registration information.

What are the fees to attend Bronze cross courses?
Fees for Bronze cross courses range from $350 to $750 per program (program types and lengths vary). Use the filters here to narrow programs by age and type.

What age do Bronze cross courses start at?
There are programs available for children aged 3 through 19.

Where can parents meet with Bronze cross courses?
Meet with program directors and staff at the Our Kids Camp & Program Expo. The Expo is held annually in February, and is a fun and informative day for parents, kids, and teens. Find event details and free tickets here.