Toddler swim lessons inEl Cerrito
Looking for the best private toddler swimming lessons near me? Itâs always a Sunsational time to learn to swim in El Cerrito! 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 El Cerrito.
What are survival float lessons?
El Cerrito 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 El Cerrito 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
El Cerrito 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 El Cerrito 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
77
/ 30 minutes
106
/ HOUR
BEST VALUE
12 lessons
82
/ 30 minutes
112
/ HOUR
MOST POPULAR
6 lessons
90
/ 30 minutes
125
/ 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!
Claire B.
El Cerrito, California 94530
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hi, Im Claire, and Im going to be your swim instructor for all of your lessons. I was on a swim team from 4-16 and have continued to swim recreationally since. I taught swim lessons in Davis for ages 3-adults the past two summers and am excited to continue instructing. I love being in the water and helping students of all ages achieve their goals. My other job is aiding recovering PT patients, so positivity, care, and kindness is always my priority for you. I look forward to working with you!
Amelia W.
El Cerrito, California 94530
Certification N/A
Hi! My name is Amelia, and Ive been a swim instructor and lifeguard since February 2018. I joined the swim team when I was 12 and havent stopped swimming since! I swam on my high school varsity team and my college club team, and I currently swim with the US Masters team. My favorite strokes are freestyle and breaststroke. I cant wait to meet you!
Alejandra R.
El Cerrito, California 94530
Certification N/A
As a lifelong swimmer, I have been teaching swim lessons since September 2016 with children aged 2-18 and adults. I was a competitive swimmer and am now a coach, so I can teach all levels from getting comfortable in the water to swim team technique. I have also been a lifeguard for 9 years, so I am also able to maintain and teach water safety. I love the water, and I hope your student will too!
Andrea P.
Richmond, California 94805
Certification N/A
Hi and welcome! My name is Andrea, and I'm excited to be your swim instructor. Ive loved being in the water since I was a kid, and swimming has been a big part of my life ever since. I started as a swimmer myself, and over time, I turned that passion into teaching. Since February 2021, Ive had the joy of helping both kids and adults learn how to swim. I focus on building confidence, staying safe, and making sure every lesson is a fun and positive experience. No matter your age or skill level, Im here to support you and help you feel strong and comfortable in the water. Im looking forward to working with you and being part of your swim journey!
Charlotte B.
Berkeley, California 94709
Certification N/A
Hi there! My name is Callie Ballard! I love swimming and anything to do with the ocean. Previously, I taught swim lessons at the downtown Berkeley YMCA. During my lesson plans, I like to emphasize water safety and teach new skills while coaching existing ones. I think its just as important to learn how to become comfortable in the water as well as have fun! Outside of swim lessons, I love to hang out with dogs, read, cook, and spend time with friends! I hope to work with you and your family soon!
Adrian B.
Berkeley, CA 94708
Sunsational Certified Since 2020
My name is Deane (Adrian Deane), 5 years of experience with ages 2 years old to adults. I am a certified lakefront and pool lifeguard and Red Cross Level I-II instructor, and I've also given Levels 5-6 stroke-specific instruction. I am a lifelong water baby and am especially excited to introduce hesitant learners to the joys of the water.
Andrea V.
Berkeley, California 94704
Certification N/A
Hi families! My name is Andrea, currently a rising junior at UC Berkeley. Although Im only here for the summer, I enjoy spending my time helping kids learn how to swim. A major skill at their age is water safety, which I am eager to teach! I worked at a swim school with kids ranging in age from 6 months to 14 years old. I taught them many skills depending on their levels, such as survival skills or swimming strokes. We can work together to ensure your kids' safety!
Chuen Hon C.
Berkeley, California 94704
Certification N/A
Im Ryan, a swim instructor with two years of experience teaching all ages and skill levels. I focus on building a welcoming, confidence-boosting vibe in the water while helping swimmers master all four strokes and enjoy swimming more every session since March 2023.
Tess W.
Berkeley, CA 94703
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
My name is Tess and I am very passionate about teaching children of all ages water safety skills. I have been swim instructing for 4 years and have experience with ages 1-15. In addition to teaching, lifeguarding, and coaching, I have tutored and provided daycare for almost 10 years. With 5 years of competitive swimming experience and 3 years on a water polo team. I enjoy sharing the love of water with children and supporting them in becoming safe, independent, confident swimmers!
Elli B.
Berkeley, California 94705
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
I grew up in a big, swim-oriented family; I played water polo for roughly ten years and was on the swim team for even longer. I have been teaching swim lessons and have worked with a diverse background of people (from 6 months to 58 years old) with different needs and capabilities. I look forward to meeting you in person.
Roman J.
Berkeley, California 94704
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hi! Im Roman, a Division 1 swimmer at UC Berkeley, currently in my sophomore year. Ive had the privilege of competing at the highest collegiate level, helping our team place second at the NCAA Championships two years in a row. Before Cal, I ranked in the top 10 nationally for my class in high school. I have been coaching and teaching swimming since February 2021, and Im passionate about helping swimmers of all levels build confidence in the water. Whether youre learning to float or training for competition, I bring energy, experience, and a love for the sport to every session.
Isabelle G.
Berkeley, California 94704
Certification N/A
Hello! My name is Isabelle. I'm a Red Cross-certified Water Safety Instructor, Lifeguard, and CPR provider. I have extensive experience teaching swim lessons and working with children and adults of all ages and skill levels. I have been swimming and playing water polo since October 2015, and Im passionate about helping kids feel confident and safe in the water. My goal is to build a healthy, positive relationship with swimming while making sure every person I teach learns the skills they need to be safe and strong swimmers. I strive to create a fun, supportive learning environment where everyone feels encouraged and excited to improve. I look forward to meeting you and helping you or your child succeed in the water!
Olivia D.
Berkeley, CA 94702
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hello! My name is Alex. Im 29 years old and a after school enrichment teacher. Although I teach middle schoolers during the school year, my experience teaching swim lessons is primarily with children ages 2 to 10. Swimming was a huge part of my childhood, and I love sharing that joy.
ARIEL N.
Berkeley, CA 94705
Sunsational Certified Since 2018
Hi I'm Ariel! I have been teaching swim lessons for 10 years! I began when I was 12 and continued teaching throughout University. I work as an after-care teacher during the year. I have a degree in Theater Arts from Rutgers University. I love teaching swimming because I know that I can get anyone from fearful beginner afraid to put their face in the water, to an experienced swimmer wanting to work on their technique.
Alara h.
Oakland, California 94608
Certification N/A
Hello, my name is Alara Hal. I am a 4th year student at San Francisco State University studying Biology and Physiology with hopes to go to medical school. Ive been swimming competitively since I was 7 years old, and Ive been a swim instructor since August 2023. Most of my experience is with ages 3 months to 10 years old. I hope I can help your kiddos learn to swim!
Vanessa H.
Oakland, CA 94609
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hi, my name is Vanessa! I have provided swim instruction for three years, both as a fellow swimmer and as a swim coach, and I have worked with swimmers ages 3-17. I was a competitive swimmer for 12 years, so I have developed a real passion for swimming and helping others swim! I also have lots of experience with children through tutoring and teaching, and I have taught and helped care for adults with special needs. As an Education major, my absolute greatest passion is helping others succeed.
Tangni N.
Oakland, CA 94607
Sunsational Certified Since 2019
Hi, my name is Tangni (you can call me T). I was a competitive swimmer for 16 years and have been teaching for over 18 years with ages 9 months -72 years old. I have taught lessons dedicated to learning to swim, diving, technique, and training for marathons and special events. I have also coached high school swimming and masters swimming. I believe swimming is important and fun for everybody and every age. Cant wait to work with you and your family!
Tyler D.
Piedmont, California 94610
Certification N/A
Hello! I have been working as a swim instructor since February 2023, and I have swum competitively for 9 years on the Piedmont swim team, starting in 3rd grade and continuing through my senior year of high school. Water safety is a skill that is very important for all ages to know, and because of the many lessons I have taught and all ages, I am confident I will be able to help.
Elissa B.
Oakland, CA 94607
Sunsational Certified Since 2020
Hi. My name is Elissa (Ee-lisa) and I have taught swim for more than 10 years to students of all ages, from toddler to seniors. I also have experience working with students who have special needs. I have worked with children as a camp counselor, sailing instructor, and English teacher. I have a Masters degree in Secondary English Education from the University of MN. A serious lap swimmer who grew up on lake as a child, I am truly in my element in water, and I love sharing it with others.
Kellie S.
Oakland, CA 94606
Sunsational Certified Since 2019
Hey, my name is Kellie. I learned how to swim when I was 17 and loved it so much I immediately joined the swim team and continued to grow in swimming for the next 10 years. I remember the fear and the stages of learning so vividly. I got Red Cross certified about 7 years ago and taught about 3 summers. And I'm a teacher by trade.
Joshua R.
Oakland, California 94602
Certification N/A
Hi, my name is Joshua Rubin, and I have been teaching swim lessons since February 2020 to toddlers through age fourteen and American Red Cross swim levels one through five. I also have experience working with fearful beginners who are not yet comfortable being in the water. I love teaching swimming because of how rewarding it is to help others overcome obstacles as I watch them become ever stronger and more confident swimmers.
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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 El Cerrito, our instructors teach year-round, so you can start lessons whenever youâre ready.
YesâSunsationalâs instructors in El Cerrito 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 El Cerrito 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 El Cerrito 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 El Cerrito 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 El Cerrito, where many families enjoy backyard pools, community centers or neighborhood pool time, lap swim, 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 El Cerrito and nearby neighborhoods in South Bay. 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 El Cerrito, 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.
