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Special Needs Swim Lessons in Elfin Forest

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

Thousands of

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200k+

swimmers

2000+

Sunsational Swim instructors

Mobile swim lessons

Private special needs swim lessons in Elfin Forest, CA!

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

Sunational Swim Lessons At Home!

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

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We cater to many needs

Autism, Asperger’s or related syndromes

Cerebral Palsy

Down Syndrome

Sensory Integration Disorder

ADHD

Physical difficulties

Sensory challenges

And many others

Why are Elfin Forest SNAP swim lessons so important?

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

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

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

Featured kids swim instructors in Elfin Forest, CA

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

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Alec S.

Alec S.

Carlsbad, California 92009

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Dylan M.

Dylan M.

Carlsbad, California 92009

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Dylan G.

Dylan G.

Encinitas, CA 92024

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Elizabeth P.

Elizabeth P.

Carlsbad, California 92009-3081

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Annette E.

Annette E.

San Diego, California 92129-1313

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Bruce S.

Bruce S.

Carlsbad, California 92011

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Camille G.

Camille G.

Carlsbad, California 92011

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Jeff S.

Jeff S.

Carlsbad, CA 92008

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Calie N.

Calie N.

Poway, California 92064

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Natalia D.

Natalia D.

San Diego, California 92129

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Conrad C.

Conrad C.

Carlsbad, California 92010

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Mary O.

Mary O.

San Diego, CA 92129

"Mary is wonderful with my 3 year old son! She is patient and observant- she changes up lessons to match his learning style so he learns gently and efficiently. Would definitely recommend Mary!" - Lorraine E.

100% Satisfaction Guarantee

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

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

Start swimming faster with personalized special needs swim lessons in Elfin Forest

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

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

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start swimming faster img

Benefits of swimming lessons for special needs students

It could save their lives

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

Help boost confidence & self-esteem

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

It improves their fitness & strength

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

Improve coordination & range of motion

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

instructor image

Special Needs And Abilities/ SNAP Swim Lesson Pricing

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

1 Student

30+ Minute Private Lessons

(1Hr+ Can be divided by multiple students)

18 lessons

$

70

/ 30 minutes

-13%
$

98

/ HOUR

-11%

BEST VALUE

12 lessons

$

75

/ 30 minutes

-6%
$

104

/ HOUR

-5%

MOST POPULAR

6 lessons

$

80

/ 30 minutes

$

110

/ HOUR

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

Swim Lessons With Local Swim Instructors You Can Trust

instructor image

What makes our Swim Instructors Sunsational?

Passed Extensive Background Checks

Minimum 2 Years Experience

Current CPR/First Aid Certification

Fully Insured Through Our Company Policy

Patient, Caring and Love Teaching!

100% Satisfaction Guarantee

Private swim lessons vs. Group swim lessons

Learn about why parents choose Sunsational for their Private Swimming Lessons

Private Swim Lessons

vs

Group Swim Lessons


Quick Results with 30+ minutes of individualised instruction

vs

Slow Progress with limited 1-on-1 attention

Flexible scheduling, book multiple kids back-to-back

vs

Flexible scheduling, may vary for each child

Save time lessons at your home or community pool

vs

Time-Consuming - travel required to and from lessons

Faster Progression saves money in the long run

vs

More Sessions Needed Needed to see real progress

Search Nearby Instructors

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

Instructor Alec S. profile Card Image

Alec S.

Carlsbad, California 92009

Certification N/A

Hi! My name is Alec, and I graduated from the University of Washington with a double major in Law, Societies & Justice, and Political Science. I am planning to attend law school next year! I have been swimming all my life. I was on the YMCA Riptides swim team for 9 years and on my high school varsity swim team for 2 years. I also worked for the Solana Beach Boys & Girls Club and for YMCA summer camps as a swim instructor. I have experience with ages 6 years to adults. I specialize in stroke technique and swim team preparation. I hope I can teach others to love the water as much as I do!

Instructor Madeline C. profile Card Image

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!

Instructor Dylan M. profile Card Image

Dylan M.

Carlsbad, California 92009

Sunsational Certified Since 2024

Hi my name is Dylan and Ive been in the water my entire life! 7 years of competitive swimming 7 years of competitive waterpolo Current college waterpolo player 8 years of swim lesson experience Ages as young as 3 month to as old as 17yrs I currently am coaching waterpolo for moonlight waterpolo club and attend Mckendree University I will be going into my 3rd year as a nursing major and the captain of my division 2 waterpolo team.

Instructor Michelle W. profile Card Image

Michelle W.

San Marcos, CA 92078

Sunsational Certified Since 2025

Hello, my name is Michelle and I am red cross certified for CPR and WSI (water safety instructor). I currently teach at a local community pool at Carlsbad from ages 3-18. My background in swimming is being involved at a competitive level in swim and water polo with lifeguarding.

Instructor Estella R. profile Card Image

Estella R.

San Marcos, California 92078

Certification N/A

Hi everyone! My name is Estella, and Im a college junior. I have been teaching swimming lessons both publicly at gyms and privately at homes and community pools since February 2020. Growing up, I have always loved swimming, which is why I decided to pursue a career in teaching. I have experience teaching children from 10 months to 17 years old. I teach a variety of skill sets, including basic introductory and safety skills, as well as specific techniques. My goal after each lesson is to ensure that the child is safe in the pool while having a fun time!

Instructor Nikola M. profile Card Image

Nikola M.

San Marcos, California 92078-5484

Sunsational Certified Since 2024

Hi, my name is Nikola! I have a lifetime of swim experience and Ive been playing water polo for 10+ years. I used to lifeguard and am also a certified rescue diver. Ive been coaching and swim instructing for about 5 years now; teaching kids ranging from 3-16 years of age. Looking forward to meeting you!

Instructor Jaazmin H. profile Card Image

Jaazmin H.

San Diego, CA 92127

Sunsational Certified Since 2019

Hi, my name is Jaazmin and I've been teaching swim lessons for 5 years with children as young as 6 months old to 12 years old. I've also worked with children for many years as a babysitter, tutor and mentor. I love being a swim teacher because aquatic skills can save lives and give children a whole new type of life experience.

Instructor Jasmine F. profile Card Image

Jasmine F.

Escondido, CA 92025

Sunsational Certified Since 2017

Hello, I'm Jasmine! I've taught all ages infants to great-grandparents (special needs incl.) since 2013! I've worked with kids all my life, from babysitting, tutoring, being a camp leader and after years in swim team and water polo I became a lifeguard and swim instructor. I love the water and seeing people grow to love the water too or build their confidence in their own abilities as they learn is very rewarding to me as I continue my college degree in Environmental science.

Instructor Soleil Grace G. profile Card Image

Soleil Grace G.

San Marcos, CA 92078

Certification N/A

Hi, Im Soleil! Ive been teaching swim lessons since February 2015, working with everyone from tiny 6-month-olds to energetic 70-year-olds. With 15 years of experience working with kids as a teacher and lifeguard, teaching swim feels like the perfect fit. I love what I do because I believe swimming not only saves lives, it builds confidence and character, too.

Instructor Dylan G. profile Card Image

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.

Instructor Elizabeth P. profile Card Image

Elizabeth P.

Carlsbad, California 92009-3081

Certification N/A

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

Instructor Felicia K. profile Card Image

Felicia K.

San Marcos, California 92069

Certification N/A

Hi! My name is Felicia, and I graduated from UC Davis with a degree in human biology. I am currently working towards my nursing degree at CSU San Marcos! I swam competitively for about 10 years and played water polo in high school. I have worked as a swim instructor and a coach for a youth competitive team. I have worked with children from ages 3 to 18 years old. I love being in the water and hope I can teach children to enjoy and learn water skills in a way that allows them to thrive and have fun!

Instructor Krisztina V. profile Card Image

Krisztina V.

Carlsbad, CA 92009

Sunsational Certified Since 2018

Hi,My name is Krisztina and I have been teaching swim lessons for 10 years for babies, children and adults. I also provide lessons for people with special needs. I used to be a competition swimmer and I still compete at Masters level. My goal is to be able to pass on my knowledge to as many people as possible and show them how much fun it is to be in water. I have Baby and Pre-School Swimming Teacher, as well as Swimming Teacher/Coach and Lifeguard qualifications.

Instructor Mia M. profile Card Image

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!

Instructor Marisa M. profile Card Image

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.

Instructor Tristan s. profile Card Image

Tristan s.

San Diego, CA 92127

Sunsational Certified Since 2017

Hello, my name is Tristan and I have been teaching swim lessons for five years now. Prior to this job I was a California State Lifeguard. I have lead the Junior guard program in Santa Cruz - which teaches children how to swim. I am currently an undergraduate student studying sustainability at San Diego State University. I love teaching swimming because I strongly believe that everybody should know how to swim, as it is a life skill that saves lives.

Instructor Mark E. profile Card Image

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! Ôÿ║

Instructor Allysa D. profile Card Image

Allysa D.

Escondido, California 92025

Certification N/A

Hi, my name is Ally Dudley! I recently graduated with a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology and was a Division 2 student-athlete on my college swim team for 4 years. I've swum competitively for over 14 years and have had the experience teaching swim lessons and coaching swimmers of all ages and skill levels. Outside of the pool, I enjoy weightlifting, going on hikes, and exploring new hobbies like thrifting, cooking, and photography. I'm passionate about helping kids build their confidence in the water and love seeing their progress as they learn and grow.

Instructor Evelyn S. profile Card Image

Evelyn S.

San Diego, California 92127

Certification N/A

Hello! Im Evelyn. I grew up swimming, lifeguarding, and teaching swim lessons! I use what I learned as a swim student as well as my instructor certification to cultivate a fun and safe swimming environment.

Instructor Eden B. profile Card Image

Eden B.

Encinitas, CA 92024

Sunsational Certified Since 2023

Hi, my name is Eden and I've been teaching swim lessons for 2 years working with ages 2 and up. I've also worked with children for over 7 years as a surf instructor at Eli Howard Surf School. I am currently the assistant varsity field hockey coach at La Costa Canyon High School. I went to University or California Davis and earned a degree in Marine Biology in 2017. I love teaching swimming because it allows me to encourage kids to fall in love with the water like I did when I was young.

Instructor Brett G. profile Card Image

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!

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Got questions?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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