Former teacher & mom creating joyful learning — sensory play, swim lessons, and teacher support in Southeast Georgia

marykathrynthrift | Instagram, Facebook | Linktree

Summer 2026 Swim Lesson Sign Up

I offer private, one-on-one swim lessons for all ages — from 3 months to adult — with discounts for siblings. I’ve spent over 10 years teaching and coaching swimming and have helped hundreds of children and adults learn to feel comfortable and safe in the water.

I focus on teaching real swimming skills — building comfort, safety, and confidence in the water — not ISR or survival-based lessons. My goal is to help each swimmer progress at their own pace and truly enjoy being in the water. I’m also experienced working with children who have disabilities and tailor lessons to meet individual needs.

If you’re planning lessons (with me or anyone else), start in the bathtub or shower — letting your child get used to water on their face and in their ears makes a big difference.

Learn About Summer Sessions

Certified grades 4–12 in science, with 7 years of classroom experience in both middle and high school settings.

I hold a B.S.Ed. in Science Education from the University of Georgia and an M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction from Valdosta State University. My work focuses on classroom management, phenomena-based learning, and Georgia Standards of Excellence (GSE)-aligned curriculum design.

Past projects include:
• Leading district-level professional development
• Creating pacing guides and standards-driven units
• Coaching teachers on engagement and structure
• Supporting inquiry-based science instruction

Services offered:
• On-site or virtual teacher observations and feedback
• Classroom management workshops
• Curriculum alignment and pacing support
• Lesson design and resource development

Teacher Support & Classroom Consulting

Contact Form

Joyful Little Hands

Playgroup Registration

Swim Lessons

Educational Consulting

Hi, I’m Mary Kathryn Thrift — former teacher, mom, and creator of Joyful Little Hands, a sensory play program for toddlers and preschoolers in Southeast Georgia.

I also teach swim lessons each summer and offer education consulting for teachers and schools.

About Me

@marykathrynthrift

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