Toddler swim lessons inHampton

Looking for the best private toddler swimming lessons near me? It’s always a Sunsational time to learn to swim in Hampton! Our private swim lessons ensure rapid progress in essential water safety skills.

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Sunsational Swim instructors

Toddler swim lessons in Hampton, VA

Safe, fun, and taught at home!

With our Learn-to-Swim Guarantee, if your toddler can’t demonstrate the “Sunsational Swim Sequence” by the twelfth lesson, we’ll give you up to four additional classes for free!

Baby enjoying a swim lesson

Sunsational Swim School brings essential swim skills to your home pool or local community pool, helping everyone enjoy the water more safely across the Hampton.

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What are survival float lessons?

Hampton 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 “forced back floating”, 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 Hampton use gentle encouragement and positive reinforcement, which helps toddlers develop water skills in a fun, nurturing environment. We’re committed to building a foundation of water confidence.

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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 – even when a caregiver is nearby. In fact:

Why Swim lessons important image
Drowningis the 1# leading cause of accidental death in the U.S. among children under 5 years old
9 out of 10drowning deaths occur while an adult is present
75%of children who drown were out of sight for five minutes or less

Swimming lessons can save lives. Give your toddler the gift of swimming which lasts a lifetime!

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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

Member of National Drowning Prevention AllianceMember of United States Swim School AssociationMembers of Female FoundersMember Stop Drowning Now

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 kid’s safety and confidence in the water.

Kids swimming lessons reduce the risk of drowning

Benefit Illustration

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 isn’t just about safety, it’s 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

Benefit Illustration

Swimming isn’t just a fun activity and an important life skill, it’s 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 they’ve 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 toddler’s 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

Hampton 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 Hampton 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!

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Toddler lessons

The more lessons you buy, the more you save!

1 Student

30 - 45 Minute private Lessons

18 lessons

$

59

/ 30 minutes

-16%
$

84

/ HOUR

-13%

BEST VALUE

12 lessons

$

64

/ 30 minutes

-9%
$

88

/ HOUR

-8%

MOST POPULAR

6 lessons

$

70

/ 30 minutes

$

96

/ 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!

Instructor Niye B. profile Card Image

Niye B.

Hampton, VA 23669

Sunsational Certified Since 2017

Hi, my name is Niye and I've been swimming since I was 7. I've been on three different swim teams. I was a volunteer swim coach for 2 years and during that time I taught kids from 3 to 10 yrs. I currently attend Hampton University and I major in Finance. I was also a lifeguard for the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation. I love teaching swimming because I enjoy seeing people skills improve and become better swimmers.

Instructor Joshua D. profile Card Image

Joshua D.

Hampton, Virginia 23666

Sunsational Certified Since 2024

Hi there! My name is Josh, and Im excited to meet you. I was a lifeguard and swim instructor since March 2018. Ive coached different swim teams in the area since March 2021 and swam for UMW in college. Ive worked with students of all ages, from infants to adults, including students with disabilities. Whether youre starting from scratch as a brand-new swimmer or would like some help with technique to prepare for swim season, Id love to help!

Instructor Sarah C. profile Card Image

Sarah C.

Newport News, VA 23605

Sunsational Certified Since 2024

My name is Sarah, I've been a swim instructor, swim/water polo coach and lifeguard for 3 1/2 years.I did swim and water polo for 4 years in high school. I have experience teaching clients of all ages 6 mos and up. I have volunteered as a swim coach for the Special Olympics and worked teaching lessons with Autism Speaks, and The EFMP. I love to get to know my students whatever your swim goal is - safety, overcoming aquaphobia, stroke development, I am determined to help you reach them! :)

Instructor Nathaniel J. profile Card Image

Nathaniel J.

Newport News, Virginia 23601

Certification N/A

Hello, my name is Nate Jackson. I have been a swim instructor since February 2013, a water fitness instructor, and a personal trainer since February 2009. I have also taught Aqua fitness since February 2015. Personal training and stroke refinement are my favorites. I specialize in all ages and all levels of swimming.

Instructor John H. profile Card Image

John H.

Newport News, Virginia 23601

Certification N/A

Hello, my name is John! I have been swimming all my life and taught swim lessons to ages 5-11 since December 2022. I am great one-on-one and pride myself on being patient yet persistent with growth and development. I am very goal-oriented and love to help those who are a little timid about getting in the water become comfortable paddling around on their own!

Instructor Tiffany M. profile Card Image

Tiffany M.

Norfolk, Virginia 23508

Certification N/A

Hi! Im Tiffany Morris, a lifelong swimmer with experience in competitive swimming from elementary school through college club. I have lifeguarded from May 2019 to May 2022. I slowly transitioned into teaching swim lessons to children ages 38 since May 2022. With 5 years of childcare and babysitting experienceincluding working with children with special needsI prioritize creating a safe, fun, and encouraging environment in the pool. Im currently in Physical Therapy School at Old Dominion University. I have a strong passion for working with kids and helping them build their confidence in the water.

Instructor Shannon D. profile Card Image

Shannon D.

Norfolk, Virginia 23507

Certification N/A

My name is Shannon, and I graduated from JMU with a Bachelor's in Kinesiology, minoring in physics, and a Master's in Exercise Physiology. With my educational background, I have extensive knowledge of how the human body works and how it interacts with water, allowing me to provide an in-depth approach in my lessons. Ive been teaching swim lessons since May 2013, and Ive worked with a wide range of studentsthose as young as six months and as old as 90. Ive also worked with students of varying levels of disability, both physical and mental, and I have experience coaching a swim team, allowing me to aid students of any skill level. Ive always loved the water, and my favorite part of teaching lessons is sharing that love with my students!

Instructor Matthew S. profile Card Image

Matthew S.

Norfolk, Virginia 23510

Certification N/A

Hi, my names Matt. Excited to meet you. Ive been a swim instructor since February 2019. I started swimming when I was a toddler and still swim laps every week. I hope that I can share some of the lessons Ive learned about swimming with you and that youll come to enjoy swimming as much as I do. Whether you are just getting started or want to improve your technique and shave some seconds off your time, I can give you some advice and drills to practice. Ive taught classes all the way from Toddler-Parent through Adult Masters, including working with those who have special needs. Looking forward to meeting you.

Instructor Brianna W. profile Card Image

Brianna W.

Virginia Beach, Virginia 23455

Certification N/A

Hi! My name is Brianna, but everyone calls me Bri . I grew up swimming in Charlotte, NC, and was a competitive swimmer for 15 years, as well as a club team coach, a summer league swim team coach, and a swim instructor for people of all ages and varying disabilities since December 2014. I have always remained involved in the swimming world because of my passion for the sport and the awareness swimming brings to water safety. I am committed to teaching swimmers of all ages and abilities how to be confident, independent, and, most importantly, helping them achieve their goals. I look forward to working with you and/or your child!

Instructor Jordan R. profile Card Image

Jordan R.

Portsmouth, VA 23707

Sunsational Certified Since 2023

Hi! My name is Jordan and I have been teaching swim lessons for about 3 years with infants to adults! I have also spent some time working with children as a clarinet teacher! I am currently working on getting my pilot's license and I love swimming because I enjoy seeing the growth my students make in and out of the water!

Instructor Tayvion W. profile Card Image

Tayvion W.

Virginia Beach, Virginia 23462

Certification N/A

Hi! Im Tayvion, a private swim instructor with experience teaching individuals of all agesfrom toddlers taking their first splash to adults building confidence in the water. I specialize in creating personalized lessons that prioritize safety, technique, and fun. My approach is patient, supportive, and tailored to each swimmers unique goals. Whether you're just starting out or refining your strokes, Im here to help you feel at home in the water.

Instructor Cassidy B. profile Card Image

Cassidy B.

Chesapeake, Virginia 23324

Certification N/A

Hi! My name is Cassidy! Ive had a passion for aquatics all my life. I grew up at the beach and learned how to swim in the ocean before swimming in a pool. Im experienced in teaching from the age of 6 months to adulthood and seniors. Ive been a lifeguard since I was 17, going on 16 years now and still going. Clients Ive worked with come back for more lessons with me due to trusting me with my teaching experience. I look forward to working with clients of all ages. Over the years, Ive received both lifeguard awards and instructor awards. Ive been certified to teach since May 2012. I swam competitively in high school and now coach my high school swim team. I swam for 2 community leagues and coached them too. Water safety is important; swim near a lifeguard.

Instructor Grace H. profile Card Image

Grace H.

Virginia Beach, Virginia 23455

Sunsational Certified Since 2024

Hi, Im Grace! Ive taught swim for 3 years & have worked in childcare for 7 years. My experience ranges from infants to 16 y old. Ive instructed swim for many age groups & abilities & coach a special olympics soccer team, honing my adaptive teaching methods. As I study to become an Occupational Therapist, Im committed to supporting each childs unique needs, helping them thrive in the water. I truly believe in one on one teaching for every child as they work to achieve their goals!

Instructor Alanna B. profile Card Image

Alanna B.

Virginia Beach, Virginia 23455

Sunsational Certified Since 2023

Hello! My name is Alanna and I have taught swim lessons for 8+ years for all ages from toddler to adult. I swam competitively for 16 years at the national and international level. I went to Lasell University and earned a degree in Fashion and an M.B.A., in Supply Chain Management. Following my retirement as a U.S. Naval Officer in 2022, I earned my Water Safety Instruction certification & License in Massage Therapy. I love the water & love teaching students confidence & happiness in the water!!

Instructor Deborah C. profile Card Image

Deborah C.

Smithfield, VA 23430

Sunsational Certified Since 2023

Hi, my name is Debbie and Ive been teaching swimming lessons for 10 years. I started with the parent child classes and then continued to expand my teaching knowledge and abilities to toddler and preschool aged children and then all the way through to working with adults. Ive also had the opportunity to work with families with special needs children. Its truly an exciting experience to see the progression, great or small, with my students and each milestone is celebrated.

Instructor Noelle H. profile Card Image

Noelle H.

Virginia Beach, Virginia 23455

Certification N/A

Hi! Im Noelle - I have been a swimmer my entire life! Starting at age 9, I swam competitively, making it to the D1 collegiate level while training with Olympians and World Record Holders. I was also an ocean lifeguard and have competed in many open water races, including those hosted by the South Jersey Lifeguard Association. Whether you have a toddler learning to swim or are a USS swimmer looking to refine your technique, Im your gal!

Instructor Kiley F. profile Card Image

Kiley F.

Virginia Beach, VA 23451

Sunsational Certified Since 2017

Hi, my name is Kiley and I've been teach swim lessons for the past 6 years. I've worked with children ages 2 and up as well as with children who have special needs. I have my doctorate in physical therapy from Slippery Rock University. In my free time I like to do triathlons and kayak. My favorite tools for teaching kids how to swim are through games. I want your children to have fun and feel confident in the water!

Instructor Victoria S. profile Card Image

Victoria S.

Virginia Beach, Virginia 23451

Certification N/A

Hi! My name is Victoria, and I am a passionate swim coach with over 6 years of experience working with swimmers of all ages and skill levels. I have been in the water most of my life. I began competing at age 4 and continued until I was 18. I now dedicate my time to helping others build confidence, strength, and technique through coaching. My coaching style is personalized and encouraging. I believe every swimmer learns differently, so I take time to understand each clients goals, learning styles, and comfort level in the water. No matter your experience level or training, I am committed to helping you grow and succeed at your own pace. I would love to be a part of your swimming journey!

Instructor Rachel C. profile Card Image

Rachel C.

Virginia Beach, VA 23464

Sunsational Certified Since 2024

Hello! My name is Rachel and I have been a swim instructor for several years! I have taught programs such as Safety Around Water (SAW) to anyone from 6 months to 87 years old! I am super excited to swim with you and bring the fun in the sun!

Instructor Hannah C. profile Card Image

Hannah C.

Virginia Beach, Virginia 23320

Sunsational Certified Since 2023

Hi there! Im a retired competitive swimmer and Ive been a swim instructor for eight years now! I love teaching kids and adults of all ages, including those with special needs! My happy place is the pool! Cant wait to meet you and help you or your child meet your swimming goals!

Instructor Kathy C. profile Card Image

Kathy C.

Virginia Beach, VA 23454

Sunsational Certified Since 2021

Coach K here! I have 15 years water instructional experience with infants and up. I have worked with children of all skill levels including those with fear. I have a deep respect for the water. I am passionate about swim, and believe every person should have the opportunity to learn how to swim and be safe around the water. I love to see a student connect the dots when learning a stroke or new skill set!

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Got questions?

We have answers. When should toddlers start swim lessons?

No. Sunsational Swim School’s infant swim lessons are based on a child-centered and caring approach that focuses on building trust and rapport with the instructor and wonderment and respect of the water. When designing your baby’s swim lesson plan, our instructors consider all aspects of the well-being of your baby, including physical and emotional. Your swim instructor will create a safe environment for your baby to learn water-safety skills that include back floating, roll over breathing, “swim-float-swim”, the monkey crawl, and what to do after a fall into the pool. All of these skills are taught in a way that’s both fun and educational, using games, repetition, and even songs, at a pace that’s healthy for your little one.

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 Hampton, our instructors teach year-round, so you can start lessons whenever you’re ready.

Every child is unique and develops at their own pace. Physical and emotional readiness, motor skills and willingness all play a role in the pace your baby learns. However, the most common and most influential factors in the student’s learning pace we find is repetition and consistency. We recommend our baby students take 3 lessons per week for maximum skill retention and fast progression. Most of our students make significant progress within 12 to 18 lessons in our baby swim classes.

Yes—Sunsational’s instructors in Hampton 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 edge—what 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 child’s 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 Hampton 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 Hampton start floating, kicking, and swimming short distances within a few weeks of consistent lessons. Sunsational’s personalized approach—taught in your own pool—helps 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 we’ll provide up to four additional lessons free until they do.

Most parents in Hampton 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. Sunsational’s certified instructors in {{metroAarea}} customize lessons to your toddler’s 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 confidence—but the biggest benefit is safety. In Hampton, where many families enjoy backyard pools, community pools, beaches or Atlantic beach days, family pool time, 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 Hampton and nearby neighborhoods in Hampton Roads. 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 Hampton, 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.

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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