The Playful Pod Mermaid Program fosters water safety, confidence, and teamwork
through creative aquatic play.
With monofins and mermaid tails, participants build skills in a fun and supportive environment.
What is Mermaiding?
Mermaiding, most basically, is swimming in a wave-like motion using a dolphin kick while wearing a costume tail and fin. Although "mermaid" is a feminine term, mermaiding is broadly inclusive, welcoming merfolk of any gender.
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In the beginning of the twentieth century, mermaiding was sometimes referred to as water ballet or synchronized swim but it is now referred to as artistic swimming. More advanced Mermaids combine technical swimming skills, acrobatic figures, breath holding and artistry.
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​Mermaiding is a full-body workout. It tones the muscles from head to fluke. When moving through the water, you're relying on your arms, shoulders, back, glutes, legs and especially your core for propulsion. This means you're using almost every muscle in your body—all in the name of fun!
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Scuba training programs now provide certification for mermaid swim instructors, with a curriculum that promote safety, creativity, athleticism, and ocean ecology. Within this category, PADI, the Professional Association of Diving Instructors, is the organization best known for promoting ocean ecology and teaching safety skills for a variety of types of diving and snorkeling.
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Services
These are my standard offerings. Please reach out if you would like to discuss alternative programming.
Individual Sessions
For anyone ages 4 years and up. Sessions are held in locations throughout Orange County.
Group Classes
For ages 6 years and up.
Groups of up to 4 swimmers, depending on age and level of proficiency.
Parties
Make your party one to remember! Not just for kids -- older people love connecting with their inner merfolk.
About Dr. Roxanne Cherry
My journey in aquatics began decades ago with The American Red Cross trainings for Lifeguard and Water Safety Instructor teaching at summer camps, community and retreat centers, hotels and the YMCA. After several summers of working with typical and special needs children ages 3-12 with varying abilities and challenges, I branched out into parent child classes and water aerobics. Over the past few years, I joined an artistic swim club and then applied those skills to Mermaiding. After successfully completing beginning, intermediate and advanced mermaiding, I earned PADI certification for Mermaid Instructor and Emergency First Responder.
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During the day, I am referred to as Dr. Cherry, working with families to improve communication skills and challenging emotions/behaviors as a psychotherapist. I have special expertise in gender issues and developmental psychology.
Resources
Mermaid fin and tail purchases:
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Advanced certification and training:
Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI)
Scuba Schools International (SSI)
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