05/05/2026
Important update regarding the ages of swim aides/assistants and swim instructors:
Communication from the DWD stipulates the following:
"15-year-olds can be lifeguards if they are certified lifeguards. If they would like to work as swim instructors, they will have to be certified lifeguards AND (emphasis added) then become certified swim instructors. They are welcome to cite federal law if they need something in writing."
While this communication does not specify rules for aides/assistants, the federal law does. https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/fact-sheets/60-child-labor-lifeguards
So, in summary, 15-year-olds can be aides/instructors if they are A) certified lifeguards AND B) certified instructors. Now that WSI allows certification at age 15, this can be accomplished.
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