Toddler swim lessons inChesapeake
Looking for the best private toddler swimming lessons near me? Itâs always a Sunsational time to learn to swim in Chesapeake! Our private swim lessons ensure rapid progress in essential water safety skills.
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swimmers
Sunsational Swim instructors
Safe, fun, and taught at home!
With our Learn-to-Swim Guarantee, if your toddler canât demonstrate the âSunsational Swim Sequenceâ by the twelfth lesson, weâll give you up to four additional classes for free!
Sunsational Swim School brings essential swim skills to your home pool or local community pool, helping everyone enjoy the water more safely across the Chesapeake.
What are survival float lessons?
Chesapeake parents often ask if we teach survival float, self-rescue techniques or Infant Swimming Resource (ISR) lessons. We share the same fundamental goal as ISR - ensuring water safety - but our teaching methods differ. ISR often uses a method called âforced back floatingâ, where toddlers are repeatedly submerged to trigger a floating reflex. While learning to float is valuable, this method can cause negative associations with water.
At Sunsational Swim School, we focus on teaching both floating and essential swimming strokes. This ensures toddlers can stay afloat as well as move to safety confidently.
Our experienced instructors in Chesapeake use gentle encouragement and positive reinforcement, which helps toddlers develop water skills in a fun, nurturing environment. Weâre committed to building a foundation of water confidence.
Why are swimming lessons so important for toddlers?
Drowning is the #1 leading cause of accidental death in the U.S. among children under 5, and in most cases, it happens in just minutes â even when a caregiver is nearby. In fact:
Swimming lessons can save lives. Give your toddler the gift of swimming which lasts a lifetime!
Levels we teach on our Swim Lesson Programs
Tadpole Skills
Cue words to learn to hold breath underwater
Assisted back float
Assisted front float/submersion
Developing underwater comfort & water acclimation
Assisted Kicking
Introduction of Water Safety Skills (based on age)
Blowing bubbles
Assisted "monkey crawl" along pool wall
Starfish Skills
Unassisted backfloat
Underwater swim (person to person & to wall)
"Monkey Crawl" holding the side of the pool wall
Reach for the side of the pool after submersion
Assisted roll to back float
Assisted climb out of pool
Goldfish Skills
Unassisted kicking underwater
Underwater turn to grab wall (near edge)
Roll to back float (less assistance)
Unassisted 15+ second back float
Assisted fall into water and roll to back float
Unassisted climb out of pool
Jellyfish Skills
Unassisted roll to back float
Drop in from pool edge, turn around and kick back to wall
Unassisted 30+ second back float
Unassisted roll to back float after fall in water
Seahorse Skills
Tread water
Assisted back float
Assisted front float/submersion
Developing underwater comfort & water acclimation
Assisted Kicking
Introduction of Water Safety Skills (based on age)
Blowing bubbles
Assisted "monkey crawl" along pool wall
Dolphin Skills
Breaststroke
Jump into pool tread water 10s return to side
Forward somersault
Skull head first 5m
Backstroke
Dolphin kick
Seal Skills
Technique refinement for all strokes
Tread water 30+ seconds
Retrieve underwater objects in deep water
Flip turns
Head first surface dive in deep water
Butterfly
Members Of
Benefits of kids swimming lessons
A 2009 study found that children who take kids swimming lessons have a significantly lower risk of accidental drowning. Learning to swim is essential for your kidâs safety and confidence in the water.
Kids swimming lessons reduce the risk of drowning
Unlike many sports, swimming is something kids can start at any age, and continue throughout their lives. Swim classes introduce young swimmers to a skill that is best developed early.
Swimming is a lifelong activity
Obesity is a rising problem in America, and swimming lessons for children might just be the answer. Swimming is a great full-body workout that improves cardiovascular health and builds muscle strength.
Swimming builds strength and endurance
Swimming isnât just about safety, itâs about enjoying the time in the water with confidence. Kids swimming lessons teach children lifesaving skills while also helping kids learn to enjoy swimming for the rest of their lives.
Important skill for fun and safety
This might surprise parents, but studies have shown children who undertake swim lessons at an early age develop stronger cognitive and motor skills, which can help them succeed in school. This means they might do better!
Kids who swim do better in school
Swimming isnât just a fun activity and an important life skill, itâs also a fantastic form of exercise. Non-weight bearing and able to work out every single muscle group, starting swim lessons will keep them fit until theyâve grown!
A fun way to stay active and healthy
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!
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
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Slow Progress with limited 1-on-1 attention
Flexible scheduling, book multiple kids back-to-back
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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
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More Sessions Needed Needed to see real progress
Why choose Sunsational Swim School for your toddlerâs swim lessons?
Water safety starts early
We prioritize safety in every lesson. Our toddler swim programs teach essential water safety skills, ensuring your child learns to swim in a fun yet secure environment.
A fun and progressive learning approach
At Sunsational Swim School our lessons follow a progressive method that makes learning fun; not stressful or fear-inducing. With private lessons our instructors go at your child's pace, progressing them only when they're ready.
Learn to swim guaranteed
We're so confident in our methods that we offer a Learn to Swim Guarantee in all of our private toddler swim classes. If your child can't swim back to the pool wall after 12 lessons, you'll get up to four more lessons for free.
Swim lessons that fit around your schedule
Chesapeake parents are busy, and often struggle to fit their toddler's swim lessons into their schedule. That's why our instructors come to you, holding lessons at a time, and pool, that's convenient for you.
Expert instructors you can trust
Our Chesapeake swim instructors are highly experienced and have a minimum of two years teaching, CPR and First Aid Certified, and many are also Red Cross lifeguard or Water Safety Instructor certified.
Lessons are fun and age-appropriate
We make learning to swim fun and engaging with games, activities and age-appropriate techniques. Young children also earn Sunsational skill charts and certificates to celebrate their progress!
Toddler lessons
The more lessons you buy, the more you save!
1 Student
30 - 45 Minute private Lessons
18 lessons
59
/ 30 minutes
84
/ HOUR
BEST VALUE
12 lessons
64
/ 30 minutes
88
/ HOUR
MOST POPULAR
6 lessons
70
/ 30 minutes
96
/ HOUR
*60+ minute lessons can be divided into back-to-back lessons for multiple children
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!
Cassidy B.
Chesapeake, Virginia 23324
Certification N/A
Hi! My name is Cassidy! Ive had a passion for aquatics all my life. I grew up at the beach and learned how to swim in the ocean before swimming in a pool. Im experienced in teaching from the age of 6 months to adulthood and seniors. Ive been a lifeguard since I was 17, going on 16 years now and still going. Clients Ive worked with come back for more lessons with me due to trusting me with my teaching experience. I look forward to working with clients of all ages. Over the years, Ive received both lifeguard awards and instructor awards. Ive been certified to teach since May 2012. I swam competitively in high school and now coach my high school swim team. I swam for 2 community leagues and coached them too. Water safety is important; swim near a lifeguard.
Hannah C.
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23320
Sunsational Certified Since 2023
Hi there! Im a retired competitive swimmer and Ive been a swim instructor for eight years now! I love teaching kids and adults of all ages, including those with special needs! My happy place is the pool! Cant wait to meet you and help you or your child meet your swimming goals!
Matthew S.
Norfolk, Virginia 23510
Certification N/A
Hi, my names Matt. Excited to meet you. Ive been a swim instructor since February 2019. I started swimming when I was a toddler and still swim laps every week. I hope that I can share some of the lessons Ive learned about swimming with you and that youll come to enjoy swimming as much as I do. Whether you are just getting started or want to improve your technique and shave some seconds off your time, I can give you some advice and drills to practice. Ive taught classes all the way from Toddler-Parent through Adult Masters, including working with those who have special needs. Looking forward to meeting you.
Jordan R.
Portsmouth, VA 23707
Sunsational Certified Since 2023
Hi! My name is Jordan and I have been teaching swim lessons for about 3 years with infants to adults! I have also spent some time working with children as a clarinet teacher! I am currently working on getting my pilot's license and I love swimming because I enjoy seeing the growth my students make in and out of the water!
Shannon D.
Norfolk, Virginia 23507
Certification N/A
My name is Shannon, and I graduated from JMU with a Bachelor's in Kinesiology, minoring in physics, and a Master's in Exercise Physiology. With my educational background, I have extensive knowledge of how the human body works and how it interacts with water, allowing me to provide an in-depth approach in my lessons. Ive been teaching swim lessons since May 2013, and Ive worked with a wide range of studentsthose as young as six months and as old as 90. Ive also worked with students of varying levels of disability, both physical and mental, and I have experience coaching a swim team, allowing me to aid students of any skill level. Ive always loved the water, and my favorite part of teaching lessons is sharing that love with my students!
Gina F.
Chesapeake, Virginia 23322
Certification N/A
Hi, my name is Gina Fomuso. Im 19 years old and currently a student at the University of Maryland. I have over 10 years of experience in swimming, including club and competitive swimming. I have been teaching swim lessons since March 2023 and have experience working as a lifeguard. I'm certified in CPR and Bloodborne Pathogens, and I have experience working with swimmers of all ages. I also volunteer at a hospital, where I enjoy helping others and learning more about healthcare. Here is my contact information: 619-754-5296 ginaf1219@gmail.com
Tiffany M.
Norfolk, Virginia 23508
Certification N/A
Hi! Im Tiffany Morris, a lifelong swimmer with experience in competitive swimming from elementary school through college club. I have lifeguarded from May 2019 to May 2022. I slowly transitioned into teaching swim lessons to children ages 38 since May 2022. With 5 years of childcare and babysitting experienceincluding working with children with special needsI prioritize creating a safe, fun, and encouraging environment in the pool. Im currently in Physical Therapy School at Old Dominion University. I have a strong passion for working with kids and helping them build their confidence in the water.
Tayvion W.
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23462
Certification N/A
Hi! Im Tayvion, a private swim instructor with experience teaching individuals of all agesfrom toddlers taking their first splash to adults building confidence in the water. I specialize in creating personalized lessons that prioritize safety, technique, and fun. My approach is patient, supportive, and tailored to each swimmers unique goals. Whether you're just starting out or refining your strokes, Im here to help you feel at home in the water.
Magnolia O.
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23453
Certification N/A
Hi, I'm Ms. Maggie. I have been teaching swim lessons since February 2024. I am a Water Safety Instructor (WSI) certified through the American Red Cross. Also, I have a certification in CPR and a lifeguard certification. I enjoy making a difference, knowing that I am giving children the knowledge to be safe in and around the water. I was on a competitive swim team in high school. Therefore, I have knowledge of competitive swim techniques as well as basic survival skills. I currently teach lessons on location for a family business. I am looking for more work in my free time.
Brianna W.
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23455
Certification N/A
Hi! My name is Brianna, but everyone calls me Bri . I grew up swimming in Charlotte, NC, and was a competitive swimmer for 15 years, as well as a club team coach, a summer league swim team coach, and a swim instructor for people of all ages and varying disabilities since December 2014. I have always remained involved in the swimming world because of my passion for the sport and the awareness swimming brings to water safety. I am committed to teaching swimmers of all ages and abilities how to be confident, independent, and, most importantly, helping them achieve their goals. I look forward to working with you and/or your child!
Grace H.
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23455
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hi, Im Grace! Ive taught swim for 3 years & have worked in childcare for 7 years. My experience ranges from infants to 16 y old. Ive instructed swim for many age groups & abilities & coach a special olympics soccer team, honing my adaptive teaching methods. As I study to become an Occupational Therapist, Im committed to supporting each childs unique needs, helping them thrive in the water. I truly believe in one on one teaching for every child as they work to achieve their goals!
Alanna B.
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23455
Sunsational Certified Since 2023
Hello! My name is Alanna and I have taught swim lessons for 8+ years for all ages from toddler to adult. I swam competitively for 16 years at the national and international level. I went to Lasell University and earned a degree in Fashion and an M.B.A., in Supply Chain Management. Following my retirement as a U.S. Naval Officer in 2022, I earned my Water Safety Instruction certification & License in Massage Therapy. I love the water & love teaching students confidence & happiness in the water!!
Briana A.
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23452
Certification N/A
Hello, my name is Briana and I have been a swim instructor since October 2018. I've worked with swimmers of all ages and backgrounds, from as young as 3 months to adults, from swimmers who just needed additional help perfecting their strokes to those who were brand new to the water. I've coached competitive swim teams, taught private and group lessons, and coached water ballet and water polo. Having trained on swim teams myself from a young age up until college, I love the water and hope to inspire that same feeling in everyone that I teach. I'm looking forward to working with your swimmer soon!
Jennifer H.
Suffolk, Virginia 23434
Certification N/A
I have been teaching swimming since February 1993. This started as a summer job while putting myself through college. I fell in love with teaching and coaching at that time and have really never left doing this in some capacity. Currently, I coach beginners to very advanced swimmers and enjoy the variety.
Noelle H.
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23455
Certification N/A
Hi! Im Noelle - I have been a swimmer my entire life! Starting at age 9, I swam competitively, making it to the D1 collegiate level while training with Olympians and World Record Holders. I was also an ocean lifeguard and have competed in many open water races, including those hosted by the South Jersey Lifeguard Association. Whether you have a toddler learning to swim or are a USS swimmer looking to refine your technique, Im your gal!
Kathy C.
Virginia Beach, VA 23454
Sunsational Certified Since 2021
Coach K here! I have 15 years water instructional experience with infants and up. I have worked with children of all skill levels including those with fear. I have a deep respect for the water. I am passionate about swim, and believe every person should have the opportunity to learn how to swim and be safe around the water. I love to see a student connect the dots when learning a stroke or new skill set!
Victoria S.
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23451
Certification N/A
Hi! My name is Victoria, and I am a passionate swim coach with over 6 years of experience working with swimmers of all ages and skill levels. I have been in the water most of my life. I began competing at age 4 and continued until I was 18. I now dedicate my time to helping others build confidence, strength, and technique through coaching. My coaching style is personalized and encouraging. I believe every swimmer learns differently, so I take time to understand each clients goals, learning styles, and comfort level in the water. No matter your experience level or training, I am committed to helping you grow and succeed at your own pace. I would love to be a part of your swimming journey!
Rachel C.
Virginia Beach, VA 23464
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hello! My name is Rachel and I have been a swim instructor for several years! I have taught programs such as Safety Around Water (SAW) to anyone from 6 months to 87 years old! I am super excited to swim with you and bring the fun in the sun!
Kiley F.
Virginia Beach, VA 23451
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hi, my name is Kiley and I've been teach swim lessons for the past 6 years. I've worked with children ages 2 and up as well as with children who have special needs. I have my doctorate in physical therapy from Slippery Rock University. In my free time I like to do triathlons and kayak. My favorite tools for teaching kids how to swim are through games. I want your children to have fun and feel confident in the water!
Amanda G.
Virginia Beach, VA 23456
Sunsational Certified Since 2021
My name is Amanda and I have been teaching swim lessons for 5 years from ages 6 mo to 89 including students with disabilities. I have worked as a swim coach, lifeguard, and baby sitter for 5 years. I learned to swim at 6 years old and swam competitively where I competed in junior nationals and all region as a high school swimmer. I currently attend Virginia Tech and plan to graduate next May. I love teaching swimming because I think everyone should be able to love the water as much as I do.
Brycen J.
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23454
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hello! My names Brycen but you can call me Coach Bryce, and Im all about getting on the amusing side of the swimming world! Whether it be learning flip turns or training to back float, fun, and comfortability is what I strive for! Theres nothing more gratifying than teaching students basic swimming techniques that theyll consciously use in water scenarios. I have experience teaching students ages 2 and up. All I ask; be open and ready to learn!
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Available all across the USA!
Got questions?
We have answers. When should toddlers start swim lessons?
We make scheduling easy. Morning, afternoon, evening, and weekend lessons are avaialble 6AM-8PM to fit your familyâs 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 Chesapeake, our instructors teach year-round, so you can start lessons whenever youâre ready.
YesâSunsationalâs instructors in Chesapeake are CPR-certified and are insured under our company liability insurance policy. Every Sunsational certified swim instructor has a minimum prior 2 seasons of teaching experience. Lessons are always one-on-one or small group for close supervision. Our instructors teach toddlers to float, roll to their back, and safely reach the pool edgeâwhat we call the Sunsational Safety Sequence. These skills are proven to reduce the risk of drowning by up to 88% for children ages 1 to 4 years old[1] and are included in our Learn to Swim Guarantee for children ages 3 and up!
Your childâs first swim lesson focuses on safety, comfort, and trust. Our instructor will introduce floating, kicking, blowing bubbles, and gentle submersion using songs and games. Our private swim instructors in Chesapeake come to you and lessons are taught in your own pool to create a safe, familiar environment. Teers are not unexpected, but what is even more expected is that your child will become more familiar and more confident in the water!
Every child learns at their own pace, but most toddlers in Chesapeake start floating, kicking, and swimming short distances within a few weeks of consistent lessons. Sunsationalâs personalized approachâtaught in your own poolâhelps toddlers learn faster than in group swim schools. With Sunsational's Learn to Swim Guarantee, toddlers ages 3 and up are guaranteed to learn to swim within 12 lessons, or weâll provide up to four additional lessons free until they do.
Most parents in Chesapeake start toddler swim lessons between 18 months and 3 years old. At this age, children are curious, active, and ready to begin learning basic swimming and safety skills. Sunsationalâs certified instructors in {{metroAarea}} customize lessons to your toddlerâs confidence and comfort level. We offer a learn to swim guarantee for toddlers ages 3 and up!
Swim lessons help toddlers build coordination, strength, and confidenceâbut the biggest benefit is safety. In Chesapeake, where many families enjoy backyard pools, community pools, beaches or Atlantic beach days, family pool time, early swim instruction reduces drowning risk by up to 88% for children ages 1-4 years old and teaches respect for the water while keeping learning playful.
Yes! Sunsational offers both private 1-on-1 swim lessons and small sibling or friend groups in Chesapeake and nearby neighborhoods in Hampton Roads. Private lessons let your child learn at their own pace with minimal distractions.
We understand if you're concerned about selecting the right swim instructor for your lessons, because we are too! Our full-time, dedicated matching team carefully reviews your registration and hand selects a swim instructor for your lessons based on your swimmer's age, goals and your schedule. You'll receive a detailed instructor profile with experience, certifications, and reviews. If you'd like to request a specific instructor in Chesapeake, we'll do our best to accommodate. But rest assured that we stand behind each of our swim instructors and selections with our Satisfaction Guarantee.
For baby and some toddler lessons, parent participation is encouraged for building water comfort. For older children (typically ages 2+), parents are not specifically encouraged to be in the water, as our one-on-one private instruction is designed to build independence. However, we always require a responsible adult to be present on the premises for all lessons with minors. If you have specific preferences or concerns, our team is happy to accommodate them in your registration. We tailor each lesson to your comfort and goals.