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Special Needs Swim Lessons in Gaithersburg

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 Gaithersburg, DC!

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 Gaithersburg. 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 Gaithersburg 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 Gaithersburg, DC

We believe our students deserve the best, so we work with only the best swim instructors in Gaithersburg. 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: Kiley T.

Kiley T.

Rockville, Maryland 20850

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Zuri L.

Zuri L.

Germantown, Maryland 20876

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Rylee F.

Rylee F.

Rockville, Maryland 20852

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Theodore M.

Theodore M.

Darnestown, Maryland 20874

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Chelsea H.

Chelsea H.

Rockville, Maryland 20852

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Elijah F.

Elijah F.

Silver Spring, Maryland 20906

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Benjamin W.

Benjamin W.

Bethesda, Maryland 20817

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Lisa M.

Lisa M.

Silver Spring, MA 20902

"Lisa is terrific!!! "Terry H.

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Zayna C.

Zayna C.

Silver Spring, Maryland 20910

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Daniel K.

Daniel K.

Chevy Chase, Maryland 20815

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Gabriel L.

Gabriel L.

Washington, District of Columbia 20015

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Isabella P.

Isabella P.

Washington, District of Columbia 20015

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 Gaithersburg

At Sunsational Swim School, we believe special needs swim lessons are essential, and we make them convenient for families in Gaithersburg. 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 Kabriya M. profile Card Image

Kabriya M.

Gaithersburg, Maryland 20878

Certification N/A

Hello! My name is Kabriya Matthews! I have a very bubbly personality; people tell me I have a beautiful smile and a great sense of style. I have a lot of fun hobbies. I love dancing, arts and crafts, spending time with family, and etc. Ive been working with students since February 2022. I have a lot of background working with swim students and I am excited to start our water journey! Prior to that, I worked at daycares and summer camps, assisting and teaching. Teaching is something Ive become very passionate about, and I would love the opportunity to teach you/your child how to swim.

Instructor Kiley T. profile Card Image

Kiley T.

Rockville, Maryland 20850

Certification N/A

Hi, Im Kiley! Ive been teaching swim lessons since February 2020 and truly enjoy helping kids feel safe, confident, and excited in the water. My teaching style focuses on encouragement, creativity, and fun, making each lesson both enjoyable and effective. I love seeing swimmers grow at their own pace while discovering how rewarding swimming can be. I look forward to meeting your family and being part of your swimmers journey!

Instructor Zuri L. profile Card Image

Zuri L.

Germantown, Maryland 20876

Certification N/A

Hello, my amazing guppies! My name is Zuri Lewis, and Im a blast from the past, ready to help you make a splash! With an early background in gymnastics, I joined my recreational swim team in high school and loved it ever since! I am basically part mermaid, lol. On top of having extensive experience and knowledge working with children since September 2017, of all ages and abilities, Im great with adults too! Dont think I forgot about you, Gups and Guppettes! Did you know 54% of adults cant swim? Dont become a statistic, and get realistic! Come book with me today! Welcoming all Guppies, Gupettes (Moms), and Gups (Dads) to a safe and amazing time. Ive got to blast, but I hope to see you in class for a splash! Sincerely, Instructor Lewis

Instructor Nicole L. profile Card Image

Nicole L.

Olney, MD 20832

Sunsational Certified Since 2021

Hi, my name is Nicole Leung and I've been teaching private swim lessons for over 5 years. I have taught lessons to students at nearly every age: from 1 year old to 60 years young! I've also worked with children for 9 years as a volunteer swim coach, junior coach, assistant coach, and babysitter. I also have 9 years of competitive swimming, 8 years of lifeguarding and 5 years of pool operating experience under my belt.

Instructor Andrea A. profile Card Image

Andrea A.

Rockville, MD 20852

Sunsational Certified Since 2018

Hi, my name is Andrea and I've been teaching swim lessons for 4 of years with ages from birth to 13. I've also worked with children for 7 years as teacher and babysitter. I am currently finishing my Masters in Healthcare Administration. During college, I taught swimming lessons and was a lifeguard at Girls Inc. I swam competitively for 7 years and love teaching swimming because I am able to watch the kids grow to be stronger swimmers, enjoy the water and give the peace of mind to parents.

Instructor Rylee F. profile Card Image

Rylee F.

Rockville, Maryland 20852

Sunsational Certified Since 2023

Hi! My name is Rylee. Ive been teaching swim lessons since February 2021 with children ages 6 months to 12 years, and adults. I specialize in Water Safety, but have also coached swim team, technique, and special needs classes. Overall, Ive worked with children since September 2017 through nannying, babysitting, and tutoring. I love teaching swim lessons because I know I can accomplish my goal of giving both you and your child better peace of mind when around a body of water. I can't wait to meet you!

Instructor Theodore M. profile Card Image

Theodore M.

Darnestown, Maryland 20874

Certification N/A

Hi! My name is Teddy! I have been a lifeguard, swim, and water safety instructor since February 2013! I have worked with children and adults of all ages and swimming abilities. I am also a physical and health education teacher for special needs students!

Instructor Chelsea H. profile Card Image

Chelsea H.

Rockville, Maryland 20852

Certification N/A

Hello, I'm Chelsea, an experienced competitive swimmer and swim instructor for students of all abilities since February 2016. I have a lifelong passion for swimming and believe in sharing the skills required to safely engage with the pool. While many skills are safety-oriented, safety is extremely important and is best taught by making it fun while still taking it seriously. Children learn to safely face the water with courage if the water isn't scary. This is ultimately much safer and inspires a lasting love of swimming. I take a personalized approach to all different learners, varying my personal progression and consistently hitting key swim milestones, which makes me a great teacher for any learner.

Instructor Skylar J. profile Card Image

Skylar J.

Silver Spring, MD 20902

Sunsational Certified Since 2018

Hi, I'm Skylar. I have 8 years of experience teaching swimming lessons and have a total of 10+ years of experience working with children in other capacities such as figure skating, after school, educational outreach, nannying, and more. Most of my experience has been with children 10 months-13 years, and I also have exp outside that age range as well. I love teaching swimming lessons because I enjoy sharing my passion for the water and I love helping people to improve their skills and knowledge.

Instructor Elijah F. profile Card Image

Elijah F.

Silver Spring, Maryland 20906

Certification N/A

Hi, my name is Elijah Faunteroy (Eli for short). I have over 10 years of coaching experience since January 2015, working with all ages! I am comfortable with all skill levels, from beginner to advanced, but all I ask is that we make this time fun and safe! I look forward to swimming with you!

Instructor Benjamin W. profile Card Image

Benjamin W.

Bethesda, Maryland 20817

Certification N/A

Hi, I am Ben Waterman! I am a rising junior at UMD. I have been swimming competitively since I was 8, and I love sharing my skills with others through swim lessons. I have been teaching lessons since June 2020, and I have coached a competitive swim team since June 2021. I have experience working with kids with special needs. I am happy to work with your family to design a unique and effective swim instruction plan!

Instructor Lisa M. profile Card Image

Lisa M.

Silver Spring, MA 20902

Sunsational Certified Since 2018

I have had water in my life since I was 3 years old. Swim team, lifeguard jobs during school and college. I maintained my competitive edge as a "Master Swimmer" during my career. I had 3 sons who learned to swim as they learned to walk. I was a summer camp director which included a swim instruction component. I trained lifeguards in instructional swim techniques. I have been teaching YMCA group swim classes for children and adults, starting with infants at 5 months old.

Instructor Lisa M. profile Card Image

Lisa M.

Silver Spring, MA 20902

Sunsational Certified Since 2015

I have had water in my life since I was 3 years old. I have 3 sons who learned to swim as they learned to walk! I also have over 6 years of experience with Special Needs students, including revamping of an "Adaptive Swim Class". I co-authored a prenatal swim class with a Certified Doula that included In-Studio and Aquatics Class exercises, as well as lecture components. I have been teaching YMCA group swim classes for children and adults, starting with infants at 5 months old.

Instructor Hoang-Van C. profile Card Image

Hoang-Van C.

Silver Spring, Maryland 20904

Certification N/A

Hi, my name is Van. I am 19 years old, and I have been conducting swim lessons since December 2019! I have been swimming competitively since I was 6! I love working with kids, and teaching them how to swim is a passion of mine.

Instructor Miles H. profile Card Image

Miles H.

Bethesda, Maryland 20815

Certification N/A

Hi there! Im Miles, and Im thrilled to be your swim coach! Ive spent the last 16 years in the water. Right now, Im a college swimmer at Carnegie Mellon University, and in my most recent season, I competed in the 1650-yard freestyle finals at the NCAA Championships. I have been coaching since March 2018, doing everything from helping brand-new swimmers find their confidence to guiding experienced swimmers in their technique. Ive taught individual lessons to all ages and skill levels, and in the past, I coached a 150-member swim team. What I love about coaching is seeing my swimmers improve. Im here to cheer them on, challenge them, and make sure they have a great time getting better!

Instructor Zayna C. profile Card Image

Zayna C.

Silver Spring, Maryland 20910

Certification N/A

Hi, my name is Zayna Clarke. Im 20 years old, and Im going into my junior year of college. I have been swimming all my life, and Im very comfortable in the water. I have been a swim instructor since February 2024, and I love teaching kids. I'm very confident in the water, and no matter what level swimmer you have, I will make sure they are safe and learn to love the water.

Instructor Daniel K. profile Card Image

Daniel K.

Chevy Chase, Maryland 20815

Certification N/A

Hi, my name is Danny, and I have been a swim instructor and lifeguard since March 2020. I am a rising junior in college studying Finance. I really enjoy being in the pool and have worked with a variety of age groups from 3 to 14 years old. I also have experience working with children with disabilities. Ive always enjoyed swimming and am excited to help teach kids to swim.

Instructor Branden P. profile Card Image

Branden P.

Silver Spring, MD 20910

Sunsational Certified Since 2021

Hi! My name is Branden Phillips. I've been teaching swim lessons for several years while pursuing a dual degree in Chemistry & Economics at Howard University. I also volunteer as an EMT, as I'm pursuing a career in medicine. I've been lifeguarding and teaching students to swim for over 6 years now, and couldn't ask for a better summer job. As a former competitive swimmer and water polo player, I now teach swim lessons to children of all ages and skill levels. Looking forward to working with you!

Instructor Maeghen D. profile Card Image

Maeghen D.

Ashburn, VA 20147

Sunsational Certified Since 2023

Hi, my name is Maeghen and I've been working with children for over 20 years. I also have had a life long love of swimming including being on summer team, high school team and a private competitive team. I spent many years as a life guard and swim instructor. I usually work with people age 2 years - adult but babies are welcome too! I look forward to sharing my passion for swimming and safety with you or your little one.

Instructor Jiayanni L. profile Card Image

Jiayanni L.

Herndon, VA 20170

Sunsational Certified Since 2023

Hi parents and students, as a certified American Red Cross swim instructor, helping children to stay safe in, on and around water is capital and rewarding. I have experience with ages 6 months to adult. I assisted my coach and taught other children learn how to swim for 5 years. I like to pay attention to individual needs. I also like to make up songs and games to make learning fun and memorable. Every learner needs a helpful friend and an instructor who will motivate and encourage them.

Instructor Christina P. profile Card Image

Christina P.

Chevy Chase, MD 20815

Sunsational Certified Since 2017

Hi, my name is Christina and I've been teaching swim lessons for 7 years with ages 1 to 70. I've also worked with children for 12 of years as a babysitter, swim instructor, camp counselor, and more. I have worked with many types of children, including those with disabilities. I went to Miami University in Oxford, Ohio and earned a Bachelor's degree Psychology in 2015. I love teaching swimming because I understand the importance of water safety and want to make swimming fun for all ages!

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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 Gaithersburg, 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 Gaithersburg, 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 Gaithersburg 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 Washington DC. 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!


Bring the swim school to your pool!ℱ

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