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Special Needs Swim Lessons in Highland

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

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200k+

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Sunsational Swim instructors

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Private special needs swim lessons in Highland, 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 Highland. 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 Highland 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 Highland, DC

We believe our students deserve the best, so we work with only the best swim instructors in Highland. Every Sunsational swim teacher is a vetted aquatics professional, 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: Steph C.

Steph C.

Washington, District of Columbia 20003

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Fawziyyah S.

Fawziyyah S.

Washington, District of Columbia 20001

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Eric N.

Eric N.

Arlington, Virginia 22204

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Lucas W.

Lucas W.

Alexandria, Virginia 22302

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Abby K.

Abby K.

Washington, District of Columbia 20019

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Grace T.

Grace T.

Alexandria, Virginia 22311

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Niamh T.

Niamh T.

Arlington, Virginia 22201

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Rohith P.

Rohith P.

Alexandria, Virginia 22304

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Adrienne D.

Adrienne D.

Alexandria, Virginia 22306

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Samantha H.

Samantha H.

Arlington, Virginia 22201

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Olivia R.

Olivia R.

Washington, District of Columbia 20010

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Felicity H.

Felicity H.

Alexandria, Virginia 22312

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 Highland

At Sunsational Swim School, we believe special needs swim lessons are essential, and we make them convenient for families in Highland. 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

$

77

/ 30 minutes

-14%
$

106

/ HOUR

-15%

BEST VALUE

12 lessons

$

82

/ 30 minutes

-9%
$

112

/ HOUR

-10%

MOST POPULAR

6 lessons

$

90

/ 30 minutes

$

125

/ 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

Vetted Experienced aquatics Professionals

Current CPR/First Aid Certification

Company Liability Insurance for All Sunsational Lessons

Patient, Caring and Love Teaching!

100% Satisfaction Guarantee

Hand-assigned to you by our expert matching team based on your needs!

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 individualized instruction

vs

Slow Progress with limited 1-on-1 attention

Flexible scheduling, book multiple kids back-to-back

vs

Preset class schedules, often different schedules 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 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 Steph C. profile Card Image

Steph C.

Washington, District of Columbia 20003

Sunsational Vetted Since 2026

Hello! My name is Steph and I have been swimming for as long as I can remember. I swam competitively through high school and have been teaching water safety and swimming skills since March 2013. I love to be in the water and help others find their passion for it, too! Whether a swimmer is excited to jump in or terrified of the water, I am happy to work with them to ensure safety and comfort in the future.

Instructor Rose G. profile Card Image

Rose G.

Washington, DC 20002

Sunsational Vetted Since 2025

Hi! My name is Rose, and Im a student at the University of Miami, originally from Vermont! I swam competitively for nine years and have been teaching swimming lessons since February 2021. I was a lifeguard and assistant swim coach for beginner levels on my high school team and absolutely love the water! I have my advanced open-water scuba diving certification and believe that not only is swimming a life-saving skill, but it is also a passion that can be enjoyed at any stage of life. I cant wait to share my love for swimming with you!

Instructor Aubrey H. profile Card Image

Aubrey H.

Washington, District of Columbia 20052

Sunsational Vetted Since 2025

Hi, my names Aubrey! I was a competitive swimmer for 10 years and have been teaching swim lessons since February 2023. I was also a lifeguard. I have experience teaching from babies to middle schoolers. I was a team captain for two years and led my "little fishes" through their first swim meets! Im Red Cross and YMCA certified in lifeguarding, CPR, and first aid. I love the water, especially the beach.

Instructor Fawziyyah S. profile Card Image

Fawziyyah S.

Washington, District of Columbia 20001

Sunsational Vetted Since 2025

A little background: my love for the water was extended beyond the womb to a birthing pool in Coney Island, NYC. If my parents tried to end bath time, I would protest, leaving the bathtub until my skin resembled a bleached prune. At a young age, I joined the NYC Parks Swim Team Club, representing Brooklyn, and was fortunate to sustain a winning record as I later transitioned to junior Olympics and then to the Olympic trials. Along the way, my swim instructors were paramount in helping to shape the person that I am today. Outside of my loving parents, they have been the most influential in instilling in me focus, self-discipline, and a caring nature. They are my heroes, and I long to become for others what they were to me.

Instructor Stephanie S. profile Card Image

Stephanie S.

Rosslyn, VA 22209

Sunsational Vetted Since 2024

Hi, Im Stephanie! I have experience teaching swimming lessons to many children from infants to middle schoolers, and adults. With competitive swimming experience since February 2015 and a background as a lifeguard, I have a strong foundation in swimming techniques, water safety, and helping swimmers of all levels feel confident in the water. I am passionate about helping kids learn to love swimming while also learning important safety techniques. I offer lessons at my outdoor rooftop pool, or I can come to your poolwhatever works best for you! Whether your child is just starting to learn how to swim or is looking to refine their techniques, I am here to make the process fun, engaging, and tailored to their needs. Lets dive in!

Instructor Tristan S. profile Card Image

Tristan S.

Washington, District of Columbia 20001

Sunsational Vetted Since 2024

My name is Tristan Stevens. I am sports medicine major chemistry minor at Howard University. I am a student athlete at the Division 1 University where I am the captain of the mens swim and dive team. I have been teaching swim lesson since my freshman year of high school and have experience with kindergartners to adults. I am very passionate about the water and have a very enthusiastic and genuine approach to teaching

Instructor Eric N. profile Card Image

Eric N.

Arlington, Virginia 22204

Sunsational Vetted Since 2024

Hello my name is Eric, I love to be fun and goofy as well as bringing a positive attitude to every lesson. Im very patient and love going above and beyond with all my clients. I believe to go by my student's speed and comfortability and will always give an option to learn something new or to continue fine tuning a stoke. I prioritize safety first and then stroke development. Ive worked with as early as 3 month to 60+ years.

Instructor Alexis D. profile Card Image

Alexis D.

Arlington, Virginia 22209

Sunsational Vetted Since 2026

Hi! My name is Ally Denton! I recently graduated with a BA from the University of Kansas and am currently pursuing my master's in International Affairs at American University. I grew up as a competitive swimmer and a current lifeguard and swim instructor. I started on my swim journey at 6 years old when I joined the summer swim team. Since then, I have not only grown as a swimmer but also as a teacher. I love helping swimmers of all ages and skill levels build confidence, improve their technique, and feel comfortable in the water. No matter the starting position, I aim to create a positive and safe learning environment!

Instructor Lucas W. profile Card Image

Lucas W.

Alexandria, Virginia 22302

Sunsational Vetted Since 2026

I am an experienced swim coach with a lifelong background in competitive aquatics, including year-round swimming since age eight and two years coaching competitive swim teams. I have provided swim instruction and coaching since October 2015, working with swimmers of all skill levels from beginners to competitive athletes. I am skilled in stroke development, water safety, and creating a supportive, engaging environment for youth. I am currently finishing up a graduate degree in social work to become a child and adolescent therapist; therefore, I bring strong communication, patience, and developmental awareness to coaching and swim instructing!

Instructor Abby K. profile Card Image

Abby K.

Washington, District of Columbia 20019

Sunsational Vetted Since 2024

My name is Abby, and I am a graduate student at George Washington University. I've been teaching swim lessons since 2015, starting with group lessons before moving to private instruction. I have worked with students ages 2 and up! One memorable student was a girl who was initially terrified to put her face in the water. By the end of our lessons, she was confidently jumping in and swimming. I still treasure the thank-you card she gave me. Over the years, I've helped children conquer their fear of water, worked with swim team members to refine strokes, and helped adults improve their skills. Seeing my students' pride when they achieve something they once thought impossible is my greatest joy.

Instructor Marissa D. profile Card Image

Marissa D.

Washington, District of Columbia 20010

Sunsational Vetted Since 2023

Hey everyone, my name is Marissa. I graduated from Howard University with a degree in political science and mathematics in 2022. I've been teaching swim lesson for 7 years. I have experience instructing all ages. In addition to parent-child courses and group lessons, I offer private lessons for students who prefer more one-on-one time. What I love most about my job is meeting new people and watching students make incredible progress in their swimming journey.

Instructor MALIKA S. profile Card Image

MALIKA S.

Washington, DC 20001

Sunsational Vetted Since 2023

Hi! I have 7 years of experience lifeguarding, coaching, and teaching swim lessons. I have worked with infants, children, and adult clients alike, from fearful beginners to those looking to refine their technique and students with special needs. I swam competitively in high school, but my passion is synchronized swimming; I competed for 10 years, including at Ohio State University. I love the water and teaching others its flow. I'm looking forward to swimming with you!

Instructor Estelle N. profile Card Image

Estelle N.

Arlington, Virginia 22204

Sunsational Vetted Since 2025

Hi! My name is Stella, and I have been teaching swim lessons since August 2022. I have always been passionate about watching students grow and flourish. I have been a swimmer all my life, both competitively and just for fun! I have worked with children as young as 3 months to 15 years old. My main focus, especially for the little ones, is always water safety. As a competitive swimmer, I also have the knowledge, ability, and experience to teach older kids the proper form and technique so that they can truly feel confident in the water. I have worked with kids with a variety of special needs, including gross motor deficiencies and autism, so Ive learned to adapt to what each child needs and how to mold the teaching environment into what works best for them!

Instructor Grace T. profile Card Image

Grace T.

Alexandria, Virginia 22311

Sunsational Vetted Since 2025

Hi, Im Grace! Ive been swimming since February 2011 and continued through college, where I swam competitively all four years and earned two conference championships. I have been instructing and coaching since July 2016. I have also worked with a wide range of swimmersfrom beginners learning basic water safety to experienced swimmers honing their technique. Whether you're looking to build water confidence, improve stroke mechanics, or prepare for competition, Im dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment where every swimmer can thrive. I look forward to working with you or your child and helping you achieve your goals in the water!

Instructor Niamh T. profile Card Image

Niamh T.

Arlington, Virginia 22201

Sunsational Vetted Since 2022

Hi, my name is Niamh! I am a former competitive swimmer turned current triathlete, and I have been teaching swim lessons for all ages and all skill levels (infant-adult, beginner-elite) since February 2017. Swimming has been an integral part of my life since I was 5 years old and is a skill I am very passionate about sharing with my community. Whether its conquering a fear of water, training for an open-water race, or somewhere in between, I am dedicated to understanding the needs and abilities of my students and structuring lessons to meet them where they are. I absolutely love helping my students achieve their goals and celebrating their successes!

Instructor Joshua R. profile Card Image

Joshua R.

Alexandria, Virginia 22310

Sunsational Vetted Since 2026

Hi, Im Josh! Im a former active-duty U.S. Navy sailor and a current Navy Reservist with over 12 years of competitive swimming experience. I also worked as a lifeguard for four years and have experience teaching and coaching swimmers of all ages, starting as young as three. My lessons focus on safety, patience, and building confidence in the water. I specialize in helping beginners overcome their fear and become comfortable in the pool while also working with swimmers who already have experience to refine technique and improve their strokes. My goal is to create a fun, safe, and encouraging environment where swimmers can develop strong skills and a lifelong love for the water.

Instructor Samantha H. profile Card Image

Samantha H.

Arlington, Virginia 22201

Sunsational Vetted Since 2026

Hi! My name is Sam Hurley, and I am currently a Masters student in Forensic and Legal Psychology. I have swum since the age of 4 but began competing at 5 until I graduated from high school. My instruction experience spans from students 3 years old to 22 years old, in which I have taught from beginner to advanced levels. I also have experience teaching in both pools and lakes. I think one of the most valuable skills any person can have is the ability to swim and understand water safety. I look forward to working with you in the future!

Instructor Rohith P. profile Card Image

Rohith P.

Alexandria, Virginia 22304

Sunsational Vetted Since 2026

Hi! Im RJ, a swim instructor here with Sunsational! I have been teaching swim lessons since February 2023 and have experience working with kids through camps and youth programs. I'm BLS/CPR certified and take water safety seriouslyevery lesson is built around it. My approach is a mix of structured and fun. I match my energy to each child, whether they need calm reassurance or a more upbeat, silly vibe to get comfortable. For younger kids, we build water confidence first. For older ones, we focus on technique and real progress. I work with all ages and starting points, and I genuinely love watching a hesitant kid become a confident swimmer. Reach outId love to connect!

Instructor Adrienne D. profile Card Image

Adrienne D.

Alexandria, Virginia 22306

Sunsational Vetted Since 2021

I enjoy teaching all levels and all ages and also have experience working with clients with special needs. Each lesson uses an individualistic approach, using different techniques in order to progress. I enjoy celebrating achievements and watching my clients grow into strong and competent swimmers.

Instructor Olivia R. profile Card Image

Olivia R.

Washington, District of Columbia 20010

Sunsational Vetted Since 2026

Hi, Im Olivia! I have been teaching swimming lessons since February 2021 and have over 13 years of swimming experience. I work with a variety of age groups from 6 months old to any age! Its never too early or late to learn. My personal teaching style focuses on building life-saving skills and then building technique. Whether you want to swim for a team or build skills to hang out at the pool this summer, I can help.

Instructor Felicity H. profile Card Image

Felicity H.

Alexandria, Virginia 22312

Sunsational Vetted Since 2023

Hi! My name is Felicity Hicks and I've been teaching swim lessons since 2013. I graduated from George Mason University with a BA degree in Psychology in 2017. I've worked with a wide range of ages, from 1 year old kiddos to 70 year old young-at-hearts. I've also worked with children ages 1-12 as a babysitter for 14 years. I started swimming competitively when I was 11, and continue to bring that joy and passion for swimming into my teaching. I love seeing clients progress and learn new skills.

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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 Highland, 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 Highland, 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 Highland 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!™

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