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Special Needs Swim Lessons in Carlsbad

Private, at-home special needs swim lessons. One-on-one instruction for Autism, ADHD, Down Syndrome, and more – in your home pool.

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200k+

swimmers

2000+

Sunsational Swim instructors

Mobile swim lessons

Private special needs swim lessons in Carlsbad, CA!

When raising a child with special needs, learning to swim can feel like another hurdle – but it’s one that can be overcome. At Sunsational Swim School, we’re proud to offer special needs swim lessons near you in Carlsbad. Our experienced instructors teach one-on-one lessons for children with Autism, ADHD, sensory challenges, physical disabilities, and more. Our goal is to help our special needs students build water confidence, improve fitness and learn essential water safety skills.

Sunational Swim Lessons At Home!

We make special needs swim lessons near me convenient by letting you choose the schedule and location – whether it’s in the comfort of your home pool or a community pool. Our patient, caring instructors adapt lessons to your child’s unique needs, ensuring a positive and supportive experience that helps them thrive as safer, happier swimmers.

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We cater to many needs

Autism, Asperger’s or related syndromes

Cerebral Palsy

Down Syndrome

Sensory Integration Disorder

ADHD

Physical difficulties

Sensory challenges

And many others

Why are Carlsbad SNAP swim lessons so important?

Drowning is the second leading cause of accidental death in the US for children under 14, and in most cases, it happens in just minutes – even when a caregiver is nearby. In fact:

Why Swim lessons important image
75%of children who drown were out of sight for five minutes or less
9 out of 10drowning deaths occur while an adult is present

Enrolling your child in swimming lessons is one of the best ways to prevent drowning by teaching them essential water safety skills

Featured kids swim instructors in Carlsbad, CA

We believe our students deserve the best, so we work with only the best swim instructors in Carlsbad. Every Sunsational swim teacher has a minimum of 2 years teaching experience, is CPR/First Aid certified, passes a national background check, and has a proven track record of successful teaching before they even land an interview with Sunsational. We back their expertise with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Why? Because we know great instructors mean fast results!

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Drew F.

Drew F.

Carlsbad, CA 92008

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Jeff S.

Jeff S.

Carlsbad, CA 92008

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Megan M.

Megan M.

Oceanside, California 92054

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Veronica O.

Veronica O.

Oceanside, California 92054

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Conrad C.

Conrad C.

Carlsbad, California 92010

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Julia C.

Julia C.

Oceanside, CA 92057

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Bruce S.

Bruce S.

Carlsbad, California 92011

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Camille G.

Camille G.

Carlsbad, California 92011

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Jeni M.

Jeni M.

Oceanside, California 92057

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Valeria G.

Valeria G.

Oceanside, California 92057

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Elizabeth P.

Elizabeth P.

Carlsbad, California 92009-3081

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Natalie L.

Natalie L.

Vista, California 92083

100% Satisfaction Guarantee

We're so confident in the quality of our swim instructors that we stand behind them with our Sunsational Instructor Guarantee!

If your first lesson is anything less than sunsational, just let us know and we can either refund your unused lesson time or re-start your lesson package with a more suitable Instructor, your choice!

Start swimming faster with personalized special needs swim lessons in Carlsbad

At Sunsational Swim School, we believe special needs swim lessons are essential, and we make them convenient for families in Carlsbad. With flexible scheduling and lessons at your home pool, your loved one can learn in a safe and supportive environment.

Our instructors tailor each one-on-one session to your child's unique needs, ensuring personalized lessons that help them build confidence, improve skills, and achieve meaningful progress.

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start swimming faster img

Benefits of swimming lessons for special needs students

It could save their lives

Often it is simply a lack of awareness that causes danger among children with special needs. Our special needs swim lessons educate kids on all aspects of water safety, and the skills they need to survive in a water environment.

Help boost confidence & self-esteem

Many children with special needs have problems with confidence, but successfully learning a new skill like swimming with the help of a special needs swim instructor can make all the difference.

It improves their fitness & strength

Special needs children can benefit from the improvement of strength and fitness that comes with our swim lessons, making them healthier and more capable.

Improve coordination & range of motion

Swimming is an activity that improves balance, coordination and range of motion, all things that many special needs children struggle with. Our talented special needs swim instructors can help your child improve their skills in each area as they learn to swim.

instructor image

Special Needs And Abilities/ SNAP Swim Lesson Pricing

The more you buy, the more you save! Have special funding? We accept grants from third-party organizations to support swim lessons for special needs students.

1 Student

30+ Minute Private Lessons

(1Hr+ Can be divided by multiple students)

18 lessons

$

70

/ 30 minutes

-13%
$

98

/ HOUR

-11%

BEST VALUE

12 lessons

$

75

/ 30 minutes

-6%
$

104

/ HOUR

-5%

MOST POPULAR

6 lessons

$

80

/ 30 minutes

$

110

/ HOUR

*60+ minute lessons can be divided into back-to-back lessons for multiple children

Swim Lessons With Local Swim Instructors You Can Trust

instructor image

What makes our Swim Instructors Sunsational?

Passed Extensive Background Checks

Minimum 2 Years Experience

Current CPR/First Aid Certification

Fully Insured Through Our Company Policy

Patient, Caring and Love Teaching!

100% Satisfaction Guarantee

Private swim lessons vs. Group swim lessons

Learn about why parents choose Sunsational for their Private Swimming Lessons

Private Swim Lessons

vs

Group Swim Lessons


Quick Results with 30+ minutes of individualised instruction

vs

Slow Progress with limited 1-on-1 attention

Flexible scheduling, book multiple kids back-to-back

vs

Flexible scheduling, may vary for each child

Save time lessons at your home or community pool

vs

Time-Consuming - travel required to and from lessons

Faster Progression saves money in the long run

vs

More Sessions Needed Needed to see real progress

Search Nearby Instructors

*If you'd like to work with a specific instructor, we'll do our best match you with your request. However, instructor availability is not guaranteed. If the instructor is unavailable, we'll pair you with a swim instructor who's equally qualified!

Instructor Sophia C. profile Card Image

Sophia C.

Carlsbad, California 92008

Sunsational Certified Since 2024

Hello! Im Sophia. Im a college student working towards a Bachelors of Science degree in Marine Biology. I have been swimming my whole life, competitively and recreationally, and I have the most experience teaching adults and kids between 1 and 10, as part of a lifeguard assistant program. I love kids and I understand learning to swim doesnt happen overnight - which is why Im very patient and willing to work to find out what will be best for each student.

Instructor Christina C. profile Card Image

Christina C.

San Diego, CA 92008

Sunsational Certified Since 2018

Hi, my name is Christina and have been working with children since 2006. I have worked with children through babysitting, vocal lessons, art, and SWIMMING! I have a lot of experience with children with disabilities and mental disorders. I love teaching children!

Instructor Jenna P. profile Card Image

Jenna P.

Carlsbad, CA 92010

Sunsational Certified Since 2018

Hi! I'm Jenna! Swimming is a huge passion of mine. I was a competitive swimmer for nearly 20 years swimming all over the state of California and in college. I have been teaching swim lessons for nearly 15 years. Over the last 15 years I have worked with children of all ages from 6 months to teenagers as well as adults. I spent 10 years working with the city in my hometown in Northern California not only teaching swim lessons, but managing the swim center and developing the swim lesson program.

Instructor Drew F. profile Card Image

Drew F.

Carlsbad, CA 92008

Sunsational Certified Since 2023

Hello, my name is Drew Frost I have plenty of experience in the water seeing as I have my scuba diving license and have worked as a swim instructor! Ages anywhere from 9 months to 15 years old. With that I have had a good amount of students that are very fearful of the water or have separation anxiety, I am very patient and have some tricks to help with that. I am very passionate about helping these kids grow and giving them something to feel proud of themselves for!

Instructor Sawyer M. profile Card Image

Sawyer M.

Oceanside, CA 92054

Sunsational Certified Since 2023

Hello, my name is Sawyer! I've been teaching swimming for about 3 years with ages anywhere near 1-5 years of age. Within those year have had experience with lifeguarding. I have been a swimmer my whole life and played water polo all throughout high school. i love teaching swimming lesson because its important for everyone to learn how to swim and to know the importance of water safety. its also a whole lot of fun.

Instructor Jeff S. profile Card Image

Jeff S.

Carlsbad, CA 92008

Sunsational Certified Since 2022

Hi, my name is Jeff Saavedra. I have taught swimming and worked in aquatics for 30 years. The ages I have taught range from 4 years to senior adults. I received my teaching degree and Master's at the University of New Mexico. I taught in the classroom for 16 years and as an elementary school principal for 17 years. I have always been passionate about teaching. Helping a child, teen or adult to feel empowered in the water through instruction is a wonderful experience.

Instructor Lilia C. profile Card Image

Lilia C.

Carlsbad, California 92008

Certification N/A

Hi! I have been a competitive swimmer for most of my life and have been helping people learn to swim and improve their technique since February 2022. I have lived in Southern California my whole life and am currently studying studio art in college!

Instructor Megan M. profile Card Image

Megan M.

Oceanside, California 92054

Certification N/A

With over 12 years of experience as a swim instructor and lifeguard, I bring deep expertise and a passion for helping swimmers of all levels feel confident in the water. I previously worked full-time training and certifying other swim instructors and lifeguards, which sharpened my ability to teach with clarity, patience, and care. Im known for breaking down swimming into simple, effective steps, making it easy for everyone from first-time swimmers to competitive athletes to reach their goals. My approach is encouraging, focused, and grounded in years of hands-on and instructional experience.

Instructor Veronica O. profile Card Image

Veronica O.

Oceanside, California 92054

Certification N/A

Having done synchronized swimming and water polo, my relationship with the water is one of understanding and cooperation. I played at San Diego State University and competed as an adult. I coached high school polo for 16 years, so I have been coaching since February 2009 and have worked with students 7 months and up. I specialize in establishing a working relationship with the water. My approach is focused on common-sense survival. Being comfortable and at ease ensures water success. I work specifically with clients who have experienced trauma, causing fear and anxiety. First-time swimmers, who have not had the privilege of swim lessons, find success with me. I work with those who have disabilities, ASD, are non-verbal, and those who are fearful. Please feel free to have a conversation about desires and expectations.

Instructor Conrad C. profile Card Image

Conrad C.

Carlsbad, California 92010

Certification N/A

Conrad has been teaching swim lessons since February 2023. He is a senior at Orange County School of the Arts (OCSA), where he pursues his passion for musical theatre through singing, acting, and dancing. Before diving into theatre, Conrad swam competitively for two years on a swim team, and freestyle quickly became his favorite stroke. Teaching has been a rewarding experience for him; he loves helping swimmers of all ages build confidence in the water while making lessons fun and supportive.

Instructor Julia C. profile Card Image

Julia C.

Oceanside, CA 92057

Certification N/A

Hi, my name is Julia and I teach swim lessons to ages 0-12. I have been working with children since February 2017 as a babysitter, a one-on-one classroom aide to students with special needs, and as a mother! I love teaching swim lessons because I am very passionate about water safety, having lots of fun while swimming, and seeing someone learn a new skill!

Instructor Bruce S. profile Card Image

Bruce S.

Carlsbad, California 92011

Sunsational Certified Since 2024

My mom will tell you I was swimming before I was walking! Ive always loved being in the water. I started teaching Red Cross swim lessons as an assistant while in high school. Upon receiving my WSI in college, I took over as lead teacher in my home town. After graduation Ive continued to teach for over 35 years, using a hybrid blend of Red Cross, YMCA, SafeSplash, and AquaSafe techniques. I tailor every lesson to the needs of the swimmer, from 6 weeks old to 92 years old, including those with special needs.

Instructor Camille G. profile Card Image

Camille G.

Carlsbad, California 92011

Certification N/A

I play water polo at UCLA and have been swimming since a young age. I love being in the water and teaching all ages to swim and grow their aquatic confidence too! I like incorporating fun into sessions, but I also plan specific drills to focus on improving each lesson. I teach all different experience levels!

Instructor Jeni M. profile Card Image

Jeni M.

Oceanside, California 92057

Certification N/A

My name is Jeni Magner. I have been teaching swim lessons since February 2005. I enjoy teaching all ages and love to share my passion for the water while ensuring the most important element, water safety. I look forward to working with you and making your experience fun!

Instructor Opal L. profile Card Image

Opal L.

Carlsbad, CA 92011

Sunsational Certified Since 2019

My name is Opal, I studied English at Cal Poly SLO, I taught swim at a summer camp for 3 years. I've been in childcare babysitting and nannying, all ages, for about 15 years. I grew up basically in the water so I`d love to be able to help you or your kids to feel the same way I do-totally at ease! I can`t wait to be you or your swim teacher because no matter if a student can swim yet or not they`re already better than they were at the beginning and the look on their face shows it!

Instructor M. Ernesto G. profile Card Image

M. Ernesto G.

San Diego, CA 92057

Sunsational Certified Since 2018

Hello, I am Earnest.I've been a swimmer since birth, and competed throughout high school. I have over 10 years experience teaching kids from 9 months to 16 yrs in swimming, gymnastics, and snowboarding.I am take joy in teaching students with adaptive needs, whether those needs are social or physical barriers. I have a high level of patience and a great deal of energy. I have a degree from Rutgers University, with a focus on business management. I also speak English and Spanish.

Instructor Megan Mehler M. profile Card Image

Megan Mehler M.

Oceanside, CA 92057

Sunsational Certified Since 2017

Hi, My name is Megan. I've been teaching swim lessons for 4 years. Over the years I have worked with children in many ways, coaching soccer teams and countless hours of babysitting. I have worked with kiddos of all ages. Mainly teaching swim lessons to kids 10 months to about 7 years old. I love being in the water teaching kids how to swim and witnessing them develop a love for swimming. I think it is such an important life skill and want to help as many kids as possible learn to swim.

Instructor Valeria G. profile Card Image

Valeria G.

Oceanside, California 92057

Sunsational Certified Since 2024

Hello, My name is Val! I am currently a student attending Palomar Community College studying for a degree in Psychology. I have experience in Child care from ages 6 months-14 years old. I am a swim instructor teaching ages 6months-15 years old, as well as coaching water safety classes for groups of parents with children under 3 years. In addition, I have experience in behavioral therapy for Children and adults with Autism. Lets have fun swimming together while learning water safety!

Instructor Elizabeth P. profile Card Image

Elizabeth P.

Carlsbad, California 92009-3081

Certification N/A

Hi! My name is Beth, and I am a former collegiate swimmer. I also swam competitively for 10 years on a club team, where I first taught lessons for students ranging from toddlers (2 years) to adults. As an instructor, I focus on helping each swimmer build their confidence, improve their technique, and reach their personal goals in the water. My teaching approach centers around proper stroke mechanics and steady improvement, all while keeping lessons fun and encouraging. Whether you are just learning to float or want to improve competitively, I strive to create a supportive and motivating environment where every swimmer can thrive.

Instructor Kelsey F. profile Card Image

Kelsey F.

San Diego, CA 92084

Sunsational Certified Since 2018

Hello! I'm Kelsey. I got my very first job as a lifeguard and swim instructor at a local waterpark and have been teaching kids how to swim ever since. I've also worked as a lifeguard, swim instructor, and counselor at the Boys and Girls Club. I have four years of swim lesson experience and six years of childcare experience, including internships for my bachelor's degree in Human Development. I love finding new methods of helping kids master critical swim skills and feel confident in the water.

Instructor Natalie L. profile Card Image

Natalie L.

Vista, California 92083

Certification N/A

Hi, Im Natalie Lindberg, and Im a 26-year-old swim instructor born and raised in sunny San Diego, California. Ive always loved the water; I grew up swimming in my pool all year long. I swam competitively and played water polo in high school, which led me to become a certified lifeguard and eventually teach swim lessons. I have been teaching swimming lessons since February 2021. I have experience working with kids of all ages and skill levels, and I always aim to make lessons safe, fun, and confidence-building. During the school year, I work as a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), supporting children on the autism spectrum. That background gives me a patient, understanding approach to swim instruction and helps me adapt to each swimmers unique needs.

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Got questions?

We have answers. How do you support students with special needs?

We make scheduling easy. Morning, afternoon, evening, and weekend lessons are avaialble 6AM-8PM to fit your family’s lifestyle. You choose the days, times and number of lessons per week that works for you. Because all lessons are private, scheduling is completely flexible and can be adjusted for vacations or weather. In Carlsbad, our instructors teach year-round, so you can start lessons whenever you’re ready.

Private adaptive swim lessons help swimmers develop confidence, motor skills, sensory balance, and water safety awareness—skills that extend beyond the pool. For families in Carlsbad, private lessons mean convenience, personalized attention, and the reassurance of a trusted instructor coming directly to your pool.

Absolutely. Sunsational specializes in private, at-home swim instruction, so lessons happen in a familiar and comfortable environment. Many families in Carlsbad find that teaching in their own pool reduces sensory distractions and anxiety, helping swimmers focus and thrive. In addition, swimmers learn to safe where it matters most--their home!

Yes! Sunsational Swim School proudly provides adaptive swim lessons for children and adults with special needs throughout San Diego. Our certified instructors are trained to work with a wide range of learners—including those with autism, ADHD, Down syndrome, and sensory processing differences—using patience, flexibility, and proven teaching techniques.

Each lesson is customized to the swimmer’s unique abilities, comfort level, and learning style. Instructors focus on trust and communication first, then gradually introduce floating, kicking, and breathing skills. The pace is gentle and guided entirely by the student’s comfort—creating a positive, confidence-building experience in the water.

Yes—Sunsational instructors are certified in CPR and are insured under our company liability insurance policy. Many have professional experience working with children on the spectrum or with physical or developmental disabilities and are certified in adaptive teaching techniques. Every instructor is matched carefully to your swimmer’s needs and communication preferences that you note in your registration.

Our swim instructors travel to your home or community pool. Learn to Swim Guaranteed
with a Sunsational instructor!


Bring the swim school to your pool!ℱ

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