Lyes grew up swimming in the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Algiers in North Africa. When he was 14 years old he was selected for the Algerian national swim team in his age group.From 1984 to 1992

Lyes was at the pinnacle of his swimming career, setting records and winning Continental titles as well as several other medals at international swim competitions.  Simultaneously, he was inspired to earn his masters degree in sports and science technology.

Lyes moved to the U.S. in the late 1990s and discovered his true calling – working with children – when he hosted his first swim exposition.  After several years of teaching a multitude of swim lessons for both children and adults, as well as coaching champion youth swim teams,

Lyes eventually established Children of the Sound in 2004.Lyes’s methodology teaches with a “LOVING BUT FIRM” approach that blends equal doses of laughter and fun with hard work.  His methodology prides itself on a personalized approach to instruction that helps children become confident and agile in the water through awareness, self-confidence and respect for the water.

Valerie grew up in New York and joined her first swim team at age 6. She graduated John F. Kennedy Catholic High School and Siena College where she swam both competitively and recreationally. She has been with Children of the Sound since 2014. She enjoys spending time with her husband and black lab, Smokey. Some of her hobbies include cleaning up the beach, running, and going to Disney world. 

Amy was born and raised in Norwalk, CT. Before joining Children of the Sound in 2013 as Program Director and Swim Instructor, Amy was an Early Childhood Educator. She loves working with children and the positive impact that comes with it! Building confidence in little swimmers and the challenge of working with a fearful swimmer is what Amy strives for. Amy has years of expirience working with special needs children. She is super patient and kind! In her spare time Amy enjoys spending time outdoors, going to the beach and spending time her family.

Now relocated in Tampa, Florida, Amy is the general manager remotely for COTS! 

If you are ever in the Tampa Bay area on vacation reach out to set up an intensive swim course!

Vanessa was born and raised in Norwalk, CT. Some of her favorite hobbies include enjoying the outdoors, shopping, and spending time with family and friends. Vanessa has a passion for working with kids and helping them feel safe and confident in and out of the water.

Sara was born and raised in Connecticut. Her hobbies include playing the cello, writing, and cooking. Sara loves working with children. She is a very patient, friendly and caring swim coach coach. Sara strives to ensuring everyone has a fun and positive experience at swim!