Toddler swim lessons inDel Mar
Looking for the best private toddler swimming lessons near me? Itâs always a Sunsational time to learn to swim in Del Mar! Our private swim lessons ensure rapid progress in essential water safety skills.
Thousands of
5-star reviews
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 Del Mar.
What are survival float lessons?
Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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
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
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
Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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
70
/ 30 minutes
98
/ HOUR
BEST VALUE
12 lessons
75
/ 30 minutes
104
/ HOUR
MOST POPULAR
6 lessons
80
/ 30 minutes
110
/ 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!
Cian M.
Del Mar, Ca 92130
Sunsational Certified Since 2023
I am an experienced swim instructor since January 2020, teaching kids ages 1 and up. I am also a former kayak tour guide, basketball coach, and martial arts teacher. I am passionate about creating confident swimmers in a fun and supportive environment.
Chiyo H.
San Diego, California 92130
Certification N/A
Hi! My name is Chiyo, and I am currently a high school senior. I have swum competitively for 8 years and have been on the varsity swim team at my high school since February 2021. I have experience teaching children ages 3-12 and have spent my past two summers lifeguarding. Besides swimming, I also love going to the beach, hiking, trying new foods, and playing board games!
Carleigh K.
San Diego, CA 92130
Sunsational Certified Since 2019
Hi! My name is Carleigh, and I have been teaching swim lessons for two years with children ages 4 to 15. I also work with children of the same age as a tutor and babysitter. I worked with Del Mar Junior Guards as an intern for 5 years and was a competitive swimmer for 7, so I know a lot about swimming and water safety! I am a college sophomore planning to major in Linguistics. I love teaching swimming because it makes me excited to see children loving it as much as I did when I was their age.
Heidi M.
Cardiff, CA 92007
Sunsational Certified Since 2021
Hello! My name is Heidi. I have a love for water and I want to share that with your family. My wish is that your child can feel safe and confident in and around water. I have taught lessons 7+ yrs to kids 6 months +. My experience with kids ranges from being a teacher, nanny, lifeguard, swim teacher, an instructional aide for SPED, and mother. I received my BA in Human Dev. from CSUSM. Whether your child has a fear of swimming or needs skill improvement, I can help. Happy swimming.
Mark E.
San Diego, CA 92127
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hi my name is Mark. I've been teaching swimming since 2004. I work with kids and beginners afraid of water, triathletes, SEAL Teams etc. I teach water confidence, safety, open water survival, and various swim strokes. Father of 3 awesome teens, youngest Autistic. I've also helped children of all ages learn martial arts, and taught kids summer camp. Thank you; if someone you know can use some help learning to swim or improving their skills please feel free to contact me. Make a great day! ĂĂżâ
Audrey D.
San Diego, California 92121
Certification N/A
Hi there! My name is Audrey, and I have over 15 years of competitive swimming experience and 5 years of coaching experience from varying levels and ages since October 2020.
Marea G.
San Diego, California 92092
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hi! My name is Marea and I have 5+ years of experience working in aquatic safety. I have worked with children ranging from 7 years old to college age and I also have experience working with children with special needs. I grew up surfing, playing water polo and swimming competitively. I also have worked as an Emergency Medical Technician and Ocean Lifeguard for 3+ years. I love helping people learn to be safe and love being in the water as much as I do. I am excited to meet you!
Allison M.
La Jolla, California 92093
Certification N/A
Hello, I am Allison, a swim instructor since February 2022. I began competitive swimming at the age of 5 and continued for roughly 12 years.
Corrine B.
San Diego, CA 92092
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hi, my name is Corrine and I've been teaching swim lessons for 2 years with ages 3 to 16 years old I've successfully worked with various groups ranging from fearful beginners to advanced swimmers and have also gained experience with special needs children. I've also worked with children for 4 years as a babysitter. I am currently studying global health at UC San Diego and swimming competitively on their club swim team. I thoroughly enjoy coaching and look forward to meeting you!
Miriam L.
San Diego, California 92092
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hi, everyone! Im Mimi, a student at UCSD and a major swimming enthusiast. Ive been a swim instructor and lifeguard for three years, and a lifelong swimmer. Im passionate about empowering kids to feel confident and safe in the water, and I would love to support anyone (of all ages!) in their swim journey. I have experience with students of all levels and ages; Its never too late to learn!
Sara L.
San Diego, CA 92121
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hi! I'm Sara Lucero, I'm currently a student at UCSD and am Double Majoring in Microbiology and Global Health. I've been a swim instructor for the past 5 years and have enjoyed every second of it! I've worked with children aged 6-12 months all the way to adolescents. I used to swim very competitively in a league and was also swim captain at my high school swim team, i also currently do triathlons. I love love love what I do and I'm excited to work with you! Thank you!
Mia M.
San Diego, CA 92024
Sunsational Certified Since 2018
Heya, my name is Mia and I have grown up around the water for as long as I can remember. I participated in Junior Lifeguards from the age of 8 and have swam competitively for 15 years. I have worked with children for 11 years as a surf instructor, junior lifeguard instructor, nanny, and au pair. My experiences in and around water have made me extremely confident in my abilities to teach children how to swim. I look forward to meeting you and your children and getting in the water! Cheers!
Brett G.
encinitas, CA 92024
Sunsational Certified Since 2018
Hi, my name is Brett Goudy, and I've been teaching swim lessons for 5 years, working with ages 2 to 20. I have also worked as a ABA therapist for children with autism for a year. I went to California State University San Marcos and earned a degree in psychology in 2015. I love teaching swimming lessons because I nearly drown as a child, and swim lessons helped me get over my fear of the water. I love being able to pass on a very useful and enjoyable lifelong skill!
Madeline C.
Encinitas, CA 92024
Sunsational Certified Since 2018
Hello my name is Maddy! I have even teaching swim lessons for 5 years to all skill levels and and age ranges. I worked at the YMCA for over two years and have been doing backyard swim lessons as well! I am happy to teach beginner swimmers or those ranging up to swim team level. I have swam competitively for 10 years, along with playing club water polo at University for 2 years. I am currently studying Nursing and Spanish at University of San Francisco, but working in San Diego this summer!
Hydi Y.
San Diego, CA 92122
Sunsational Certified Since 2025
Hello, my name is Hydi and I have been teaching swim lessons for two years with ages 3 to 12. I have also worked with children for six years as a tutor and babysitter. I go to UC San Diego with a Biology degree. I love to teach swimming because it is very rewarding to see the students' joy as they progress and become better swimmers.
Marisa M.
Encinitas, CA 92024
Sunsational Certified Since 2019
Hello my name is Ravelle. I have been a swim instructor for 4 years at the YMCA, as well as a lifeguard and a swim coach for 2 different teams. I have a lot of experience with children from infants , to preschool age and youth. One of my favorite things about teaching is being able to see the progress children make as swimmers , and seeing kids gain confidence in swimming. I started college at Sacramento City College majoring in Psychology. I played water polo and was on the swim team.
Alia D.
San diego, California 92122
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hi! My name is Alia, Ive been a swim instructor and lifeguard for over four years, in three states! I have experience teaching all ages from 6months to adults, from beginners to those looking to join swim team or tryout for beach guarding! I also have experience with kiddos who have additional needs, particularly with those with autism and limited mobility. I love teaching, think being water safe is one of the most important skills for kids to learn, and Im happy to help out on that journey!
Susan M.
San Diego, California 92126
Sunsational Certified Since 2023
Hi my name is Susan! I enjoy teaching and helping all ages and abilities to improve their swim performance. I swam competitively growing up and currently coach both swim team and water polo with a local high school. I am also a preschool teacher for ages 2-5 at a private preschool. I received a B.S. degree in Construction Engineering from ASU. If you are interested in first lessons to perfecting your stroke techniques, please consider to partner with me to gain safety and water competency.
Alanakealoha B.
San Diego, California 92122
Sunsational Certified Since 2023
Hi! My name is Alana Barthel, a swim instructor with six years of experience teaching everyone from 2-month-old infants to adults. Alongside swimming, I've spent eight years as a tutor and babysitter. I'm a Le Jardin Academy alum currently pursuing a Bachelor's in Human Biology at UC San Diego, set to graduate in 2025. My life has always been connected to the water, a passion I'm eager to share. Whether it's your first swim or refining your strokes, I'm excited to support your aquatic journey.
Miranda D.
San Diego, California 92122
Certification N/A
Hi, my name is Miranda, and I have competed competitively with USA Swimming since February 2011, where I was on the state team for 6 years. I have been teaching swim lessons since February 2020, with private lessons for ages ranging from 2 to 18 and camp lessons for 10 to 20 kids ages 5 to 12. Additionally, I have been a lifeguard since February 2020 and was in charge of teaching other instructors how to conduct lessons.
Dylan G.
Encinitas, CA 92024
Sunsational Certified Since 2023
I have experience teaching swim to students ages infants through adults, including those with special needs! We would sing, splash, and play games while learning safe pool practices. I have been coaching various life skills to all ages for over 15 years with multiple universities, schools, and clubs. I have coached fencing with the University of Florida & Wayne State University while attending Santa Fe College & Miracosta College. Where I am finishing an Associate's of Science in Research & Development.
Loading...
Search our Serviced Locations
Find out if a Sunsational Swim instructor is in your area
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 Del Mar, our instructors teach year-round, so you can start lessons whenever youâre ready.
YesâSunsationalâs instructors in Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar 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 Del Mar, where many families enjoy backyard pools, community pools, beaches or beach days, home pool lessons, 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 Del Mar and nearby neighborhoods in San Diego 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 Del Mar, 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.