Toddler swim lessons inEllicott City
Looking for the best private toddler swimming lessons near me? Itâs always a Sunsational time to learn to swim in Ellicott City! Our private swim lessons ensure rapid progress in essential water safety skills.
Thousands of
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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 Ellicott City.
What are survival float lessons?
Ellicott City 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 Ellicott City 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
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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
Ellicott City 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 Ellicott City 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!
Stephanie T.
Catonsville, MD 21228
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hello, Stephanie here! I've been teaching swim lessons for 5 years to students of all ages. I've worked with children in some capacity for the past 13 years and truly enjoy seeing a student develop, learn, and conquer their goals. I am a mental health therapist and do community based counseling at various schools in the area. I love teaching swimming because it's a life skill everyone needs, and the water is such a fun space once you've learned to respect it and yourself.
Charles R.
Ellicott City, MD 21042
Sunsational Certified Since 2023
Hi, my name is Chuck and I have been teaching swim lessons for the past three years, including ages 2 through adult. I'm experienced with special needs children and students of all ages who fear the water. I was on swim team, worked as a lifeguard, and trained lifeguards. I'm a father of two and recently retired as a Senior Computer Systems Analyst. I love swimming so being a swim instructor is my dream job. I strive to get fast results while focusing on safety first and FUN!
Melanie W.
Columbia, MD 20145
Sunsational Certified Since 2025
Hi my name is Melanie and I've been teaching swim lessons for seven years with infants as young as 6 months all the way up to adults! I have also worked with children through swim coaching and babysitting. I went to the University of Delaware and have a degree in health sciences. I am currently pursuing my Masters in occupational therapy at Thomas Jefferson University. I love teaching swimming because I love seeing progress whether it be being comfortable in the water or learning a new stroke!
Zamaar A.
Woodlawn, Maryland 21244
Certification N/A
Hi! Im Zamaar Abbasi, and Ive been teaching kids how to swim since February 2023and I absolutely love it. What started as just a skill has turned into one of my biggest passions. Theres nothing better than seeing a child go from nervous around water to splashing with confidence and having fun. I specialize in one-on-one lessons because every swimmer is different, and I make sure each child gets the attention, support, and encouragement they need. My lessons are all about building trust, learning at your own pace, and most importantlyhaving fun in the water! Whether your child is just dipping their toes in or ready to take big strokes, Im here to help them become safe, strong, and happy swimmers.
Melanie M.
Elkridge, MD 21075
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hi, my name is Melanie and I've been teaching swim lessons for 2 years coaching young children, teens, and adults. I've worked with a variety of students some of which who had never been in water before and students with special needs. I love teaching swim lessons because I used to swim competitively and want to share my skillset so students can feel comfortable in the water.
Joi H.
Columbia, MD 21044
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hello! My name is Joi. I have been teaching swim lessons for over 8 years now and lifeguarding for 12 years. I am a current student in a doctoral program to become a psychologist, a mom of two boys and I specialize in children with special needs. I am able to teach all ages and levels and I look forward to working with you. See you soon!
Julia N.
Baltimore, Maryland 21229
Certification N/A
Hi, Im Julia and Im 19. I am currently working as a swim teacher. Ive taught ages 4 months old all the way to the 70s, all at various skill levels. My teaching style varies from student to student depending on their needs. My best qualities as a swim instructor include problem-solving, patience, and experience. Ive been swimming since I was very young. I started out with lessons when I was a toddler and moved to a swim team when I was 8. I did that until I was 13 and going into high school. Some of my favorite hobbies include reading, listening to music, and cooking. I spend my free time with family members or friends.
Shelby J.
Savage, MD 20763
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hello, I'm Shelby and I have been teaching swim lessons for about a year and swam competitively for 10 years. I've worked with infants, toddlers, and school age children and have experience teaching children with special needs including autism, down syndrome, and adhd. I love teaching because of how rewarding it is. My favorite experiences with teaching are helping a child face their fears, realize their capabilities, and to see the smile on their face when they have had a great lesson!
katie j.
Baltimore, MD 21211
Sunsational Certified Since 2018
Hi, I'm Katie, and I have been teaching lessons and coaching swimming for 28+ years, to all ages, infant through adult, at all levels: cautious, fearful swimmers, as well as NCAA finalists. I have also taught elementary school. I swam competitively from age 6 through college, to Masters, and continue to do open water swimming competitions at least once a year. I attended Johns Hopkins University, where I swam for 4 years. I love to see ALL swimmers make improvements and gain confidence!
Abigail D.
Baltimore, MD 21218
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hi my name is Abbie and I've been teaching swim lessons for 10+ years with ages 4 and up. I'm also a certified special education teacher with my masters in teaching. I went to Williams College for undergrad, where I majored in political science and German. At Williams I competed as a swimmer and as a rower, helping win four national championships. I went to UVA for my masters. I love teaching swimming because I want everyone to be comfortable in the water and learn to love it as much as I do!
Jessica A.
Baltimore, MD 21217
Sunsational Certified Since 2016
Hello, my name is Jess. I have been teaching swimming professionally for over 25 years. Ive taught all ages and abilities and specialize in swimmers with all varieties of special needs.
Sydney F.
Baltimore, Maryland 21201
Certification N/A
Hi, my name is Sydney, and I have been teaching swim lessons since December 2019. I earned my bachelor's degree in pediatric social work from Miami University, with a minor in child and youth development and disability studies. I received my master's degree in social work in 2025. I am passionate about teaching swimming to all ages and abilities, creating a comfortable and fun experience in the water. I focus on safety, technique, and building confidence, tailoring each lesson to meet the unique goals and needs of every swimmer. I love helping students feel empowered in the pool while enjoying the process of learning and improving their skills. I can't wait to meet you in the pool and help you reach your swimming goals!
Sophia C.
Laurel, Maryland 20723
Certification N/A
Hello! My name is Sophia Cramer, and I am excited to be your swim instructor! I began swimming on my local summer swim team when I was 5 years old and began swimming year-round soon after. I swam competitively for a total of 12 years and have remained a member of the swimming community through lifeguarding and teaching swim lessons. I have experience teaching students aged one and above. In my opinion, a perfect lesson pushes and empowers kids to face their fears and improve their swimming skills while incorporating fun, personalized games!
Destiny W.
Baltimore, Maryland 21217
Certification N/A
Hello, friends! My name is Ms. Destiny, and I am thrilled to meet you and be your swim instructor! I have been teaching swimming since February 2023. I am both CPR certified and First Aid certified.
Jaylin J.
Baltimore, Maryland 21202
Certification N/A
Hello! My name is Jaylin, and I cannot wait to be your next swim teacher!\n\nMy journey started back when I was about 6 or 7, taking swim lessons, and I was even afraid to get in the water. With time and patience, I was eventually able to learn the skills that I know today!\n\nAs a music teacher, Ive taught students of all ages. When it comes to swimming, Ive taught college-aged adults the skills necessary to pass swim qualifications for the military and even just how to float or kick. All it takes is patience, time, effort, and practice. Lets get started!
Jaimisyn K.
Baltimore, MD 21205
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hello, my name is Jaimisyn. I am a graduate of Cal State LA, UC Berkeley, and Tufts. During the school year I am a 6th grade math and science teacher in Baltimore City. During the summer I spend my time in the water teaching swim lessons and water safety to children and adults of all ages and levels, including those with special needs. This is my 5th year getting to teach individuals to be comfortable and confident in the water and enjoy swimming as much as I do!
Charlotte R.
Baltimore, MD 21231
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hi, my name is Charlotte. I've been teaching swim lessons for 5 years with children ages 5-11. I've also worked with children for 4 years as a babysitter, volunteer at an elementary school and at my local children's hospital. I graduated from Brown University in 2019 with a degree in biology. I was a member of the varsity swim team at Brown. I've been swimming since I was seven years old and have always had a love for the water. I wish to instill that love of the water in all children I teach!
Ledia E.
Laurel, Maryland 20707
Sunsational Certified Since 2023
My name is Ledia and I have been teaching swim lessons for a few years with ages 2 to 50+. I have also worked with children for more than 15 years as a Sunday school teacher, tutor, babysitter, and mentor. I went to college in Massachusetts, and earned a degree in economics. I speak Spanish and Amharic and work full-time in finance. Swimming builds self-confidence and is a great form of exercise. I have experience working with children with special needs, and I work best with beginner swimmers!
Shannon S.
Baltimore, MD 21205
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hi, my name is Shannon and I`ve been teaching swim lessons for around 8years now with ages 4-14! I have helped kids learn from their first swim to improving technique for competition. I did competitive swim for 10 years. I have also worked with children for over 10years as a babysitter, nanny, tutor, and home school teacher. I went to Trident Tech for Business and graduated in 2014. I now actually follow my dream of developing real estate, but I miss working with kids and love to swim!
Flavio R.
Burtonsville, MD 20866
Sunsational Certified Since 2019
Hi my name is Flavio, and I've been teaching swim lessons now for 4 years! I teach young toddlers all the way to adults. I'm a certified American Red Cross lifeguard/First Aid/CPR/AED. And a water safety instructor. Swimming is a skill that everybody has the privilege to learn. I'm also a competitive swimmer for the past 7 years. I love to teach new individuals how to swim and see them progress! I go to Howard Community College! I'm getting my degree in Business Administration.
Brett A.
Reisterstown, MD 21136
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hi name is Brett. I have been working with children for over 10 years. My first job when I was 15 was lifeguarding. From then on I loved being around the water. From ages 16-20, before my college career, I taught swim lessons and coached swim team. I currently work as a high school nurse and have a bachelor's degree in nursing from Chamberlain University. I love teaching swim lessons in the summer because it gives me a chance to get in the pool and teach.
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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 Ellicott City, our instructors teach year-round, so you can start lessons whenever youâre ready.
YesâSunsationalâs instructors in Ellicott City 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 Ellicott City 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 Ellicott City 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 Ellicott City 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 Ellicott City, 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 Ellicott City 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 Ellicott City, 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.