Toddler swim lessons inCosta Mesa
Looking for the best private toddler swimming lessons near me? Itâs always a Sunsational time to learn to swim in Costa Mesa! Our private swim lessons ensure rapid progress in essential water safety skills.
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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 Costa Mesa.
What are survival float lessons?
Costa Mesa 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 Costa Mesa 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
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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
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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
Costa Mesa 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 Costa Mesa 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
66
/ 30 minutes
92
/ HOUR
BEST VALUE
12 lessons
71
/ 30 minutes
98
/ HOUR
MOST POPULAR
6 lessons
76
/ 30 minutes
105
/ 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!
Savanah W.
Costa Mesa, California 92626
Certification N/A
Hi! Im Savanah, a passionate and enthusiastic swim instructor with over three years of experience teaching children of all ages, including those with special needs. I love what I do and take pride in creating a fun, safe, and supportive environment where every child can learn, grow, and gain confidence in the water. Helping kids reach their goals while building life-saving skills is what drives me every day!!!
Kimberley F.
COSTA MESA, CA 92627
Sunsational Certified Since 2025
Hi, I've been teaching swim lessons for 15 years and I have worked with babies to Adults. I've also worked with children and adults with special needs. I love teaching swimming because I am passing on a life skill to everyone I teach!
Danilo C.
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Sunsational Certified Since 2021
Hi, I'm Danilo! I have been a competitive swimmer for 12 years and I am a student at Orange Coast College. For the last 4 years I've been working with kids ages 3-18 through coaching and volunteering. I love teaching swim lessons because I get to teach kids about something I have been passionate about my entire life. My goal is to instill confidence, respect, and a love for water in kids. My specialty lies in teaching progressive instruction with an emphasis on stroke technique.
Nikki M.
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Sunsational Certified Since 2025
My name is Nikki, I am so passionate about being a swim lesson instructor! I first started instructing in 2006. I was first a competitive swimmer on the swim team from age 8 untill I was 16. I have taught every age level and also coaches swim team. I was also a life guard and lifeguard instructor starting at the age of 16. I love the water and believe everyone should have the opportunity to feel safe in the water and learn skills to become a better swimmer!
Brissy D.
Costa Mesa, California 92626
Certification N/A
Hello! My name is Brissy Dowdypronounced like Chrissy, but with a B. Im so excited to be working with you and helping students build strong swimming skills and confidence in the water. A little about my background: I started swimming at 2 years old and developed a deep passion for the sport early on. I went on to compete with a club team, swam on my high school varsity team, and later swam for three years at Concordia University Irvine, a Division II collegiate swim program, while earning my degree. Ive been coaching on and off since November 2021, working with swimmers from 6 months old through high school. I love helping students grow both in skill and confidence, no matter their age or experience level.
Clara-Andrea Z.
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hi, my name is Clara and I have been teaching children how to swim for almost 1 year. I also, have 9 years competitive experience with my high school and private swim team. I have worked with children for almost 7 years as a babysitter and tutor. I am currently a college student studying business. I love teaching children the enjoyment of safe and competitive swim techniques.
Grace S.
Costa Mesa, California 92626
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hi! My name is Grace from Costa Mesa! Ive been swimming for as long as I can remember with valuable experience in swimming on a team and teaching swim lessons. Im super outgoing and I am happy to adjust lessons based on whatever works best for you! I have lots of experience in working with all ages and Im ready to bring my energy and enthusiasm to every lesson!
Sergio M.
Costa Mesa, California 92626
Certification N/A
Im Coach Sergio, a passionate swim instructor with years of experience. Ive coached swimmers from beginners just starting out all the way to national-level athletes. I focus on safety, confidence, and fun while helping every student reach their full potential in the water. Lets make swimming a skill theyll love for life!
Elle C.
Costa Mesa, California 92627
Certification N/A
Hi! My name is Elle, and I absolutely adore teaching kids how to swim while prioritizing a positive, fun relationship with the water! I have been involved in competitive swimming since June 2014. For the past year, Ive worked as a certified YMCA swim instructor and lifeguard, teaching swimmers of all agesfrom babies taking their first splashes to adults training for triathlons. Whether your swimmer is just starting out or aiming to improve performance, I'm here to help them succeed!
Olivia T.
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hi, my name is Olivia Thoelke, and I have been teaching swim lessons since 2012. I recently obtained my Master of Secondary Education and started my career as a 7th-grade teacher this year. I have taught swimming lessons to all ages, including toddlers and adults. I was a competitive swimmer for eight years growing up, and adept in both teaching water safety/basic skills and stroke techniques. I like to keep lessons fun but work towards specific goals. I look forward to working with you!
Kristin W.
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hi! My name is Kristin and I have over 5 years of experience teaching swimming lessons. I have taught both private lessons in the past and worked for accredited swim schools. I love working with children and have not only been babysitting for years but worked at the children's center at UCSB while attending college there. I graduated with a bachelor's degree in psychology and a minor in education. I look forward to hearing from you soon!
Reyna S.
Costa Mesa, California 92627
Certification N/A
Hello! My name is Reyna. Im an early graduate from UCI with a Bachelors in Psychology and I am looking to pursue further education in Clinical Psychology. I used to swim competitively for eight years, competing multiple times in state championships for both club and high school teams. I have experience in both lifeguarding and childrens swim instruction, and I am passionate about ensuring that kids feel safe in the water. Swimming is a great skill and hobby, and I believe that every child deserves to experience swimming confidently!
Annika R.
Costa Mesa, California 92627
Certification N/A
Hi! I recently graduated college, where I played volleyball. Before and while playing volleyball, I was a very competitive swimmer. During high school, I was a lifeguard. Then, directly after, I became a coach and gave private lessons for the following three years. I have been giving private lessons on and off since October 2021 while I have focused on my professional career. I want to continue to help teach children how to be confident and enjoy the water. I love water sports and surfing, so its very important to me to pass it along and have more people playing in the water. My personality is outgoing and energetic. I want everything in life to be fun, so the lesson I will give is fun while very focused to challenge the student.
Joel S.
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hello, my name is Joel, I have been teaching swimming, coaching swimming and instructing stroke technique to ages 1 to 65 years of age for 25 years. I attended CSUB and NYIT, and hold an A.A. B.S. degree in Telecomm Mgmt. Additionally, I swam competitively throughout high school and college, and have comoleted multiple courses in the Theory of Coaching Swimming.I enjoy teaching swimming, because by learning to swim people broaden their horizons and tswimming skills help to keep them safe.
Elissia S.
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hi, my name is Elissia and I've been teaching swim lessons for 5 years with children aging from 6 months to adults. I also have experience as a babysitter. I went to UCLA and played on the water polo team there, and I earned a degree in History in 2017. I love teaching swimming because I think it is important for children to learn how to be safe in the water starting at a young age. I love working with children, and the joy in their faces when they learn a new skill or technique is priceless.
Anthony S.
Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Sunsational Certified Since 2019
Hi, my name is AJ and I've been teaching swim lessons for over 4 years with ages ranging from 2-20. I've also worked with children for 4 years as a tutor and babysitter. I'm currently a junior at Chapman University and earning a bachelors degree in Biological Sciences. I love working with kids and safely teaching them how to swim on their own!
Lindsay R.
Costa Mesa, California 92627
Certification N/A
Hi there! I have 20+ years of teaching experience with children 6 months and up (including adults). I provide individualized attention to each student, as each child learns differently. I prioritize water safety while making them gain confidence in the water. I want the children to learn at their own pace- if they're secure in the water, they will become lifetime swimmers! Patience is a key component, and helping students build trust will develop their skills. Happy swimming!
Evan B.
Santa Ana, California 92704
Certification N/A
Hi! My name is Evan Brandt. Im currently an EMT with the fire department and a certified swim instructor. Before this, I served as an Ocean Lifeguard Instructor, teaching large groups how to stay safe and confident in the water. Im excited to bring that same energy and experience to help you or your child learn to swim, stay safe, and have fun in and around the water! I also have experience working with students who have special needs.
Gabe G.
Costa Mesa, California 92626
Sunsational Certified Since 2023
Hello, my name is Gabe and I have been teaching swim lessons since February 2020! I have worked with children aged from 6 months to 12 years old. I have also worked with children for about 7 years, doing after-school sports and enrichment. I have swum and played water polo for nearly 15 years! I have a true passion for water safety and ensuring everyone's swimming goals are met!
Ajdin K.
Costa Mesa, California 92626
Certification N/A
Hi, Im Ajdin! I have experience teaching swimming to kids ages infants through adults at swim academies and love helping students build confidence in the water. I also have a background in water polohaving played in high school and now actively competing with a club team. Beyond the pool, I have worked as a language instructor, teaching Italian, Serbian, and Croatian to both kids and adults, so I know how to tailor my teaching to different learning styles. Whether your child is just starting out or looking to improve their strokes, Im here to make swimming fun, safe, and rewarding!
Jake B.
Huntington Beach, CA 92646
Sunsational Certified Since 2016
Hello!My name is Jake and I've been teaching and helping people swim for over 15 years. I've taught ages from3 years old all the way up to 70 years young. I have a strong background in youth mental development in terms of fear, anxiety, self belief and confidence!I have accreditation from Australia and USA.I LOVE engaging young swimmers and turning them on to this great sport! I have open water experience as a competitive triathlete who still places high in my current age group.
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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 Costa Mesa, our instructors teach year-round, so you can start lessons whenever youâre ready.
YesâSunsationalâs instructors in Costa Mesa 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 Costa Mesa 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 Costa Mesa 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 Costa Mesa 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 Costa Mesa, where many families enjoy backyard pools, HOA pools, beaches or home pool parties, coastal beach days, 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 Costa Mesa and nearby neighborhoods in Orange County. 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 Costa Mesa, 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.