Swim School>DC>Washington DC>Highland>Special needs swimming

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.

Thousands of

5-star reviews

200k+

swimmers

2000+

Sunsational Swim instructors

Mobile swim lessons

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.

Get Started

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 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: Richard S.

Richard S.

Washington, District of Columbia 20024

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Christina M.

Christina M.

Alexandria, Virginia 22301

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Sam G.

Sam G.

Temple Hills, Maryland 20748

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Fawziyyah S.

Fawziyyah S.

Washington, District of Columbia 20001

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Diya S.

Diya S.

Washington, DC 20036

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Eric N.

Eric N.

Arlington, Virginia 22204

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Abby K.

Abby K.

Washington, District of Columbia 20008

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Renee G.

Renee G.

Washington, District of Columbia 20009

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Blake B.

Blake B.

District of Columbia, Washington, District of Columbia 20059

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Grace T.

Grace T.

Alexandria, Virginia 22311

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Celia O.

Celia O.

Arlington, Virginia 22201

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.

Book Swim Lessons
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 Aisling R. profile Card Image

Aisling R.

Washington, DC 20003

Certification N/A

Hi! My name is Aisling Riederer, and I have been teaching swim lessons for over 3 years. I have taught ages 18 months to 12 years, as well as adults. I have also worked with children for over 7 years through both babysitting and working in a daycare. I grew up swimming competitively, and I love teaching swim lessons as a way to continue to share my love for swimming and water safety!

Instructor Sydney K. profile Card Image

Sydney K.

Arlington, VA 22202

Sunsational Certified Since 2023

Hi, my name is Sydney Koerner. I have been teaching swim lessons for 6 years and taught ages 2.5-15, as well as coached swim team for kids aged 12-18. I also have experience teaching adult swim lessons and swim lessons with special need children and adults. I earned my B.S. in Exercise Science from Central Michigan University in 2019. I want to share my passion for swimming with others and hope I can help swimmers of all ages be comfortable and confident in the water!

Instructor Christina M. profile Card Image

Christina M.

Alexandria, Virginia 22301

Certification N/A

Dear future clients and students, Im overflowing with thankfulness to be able to swim! I want to share the fun and joy of helping others to: - be safe around and in water - discover a new water world to explore - feel the accomplishment of learning new skills, practicing step by step - set themselves up to receive the health benefits of great exercise - share the goodness with family and friends - safely, confidently, take a deep breath and jump right in! I grew up near the beach, so water reminds me of home. In the winter, wed go to the Y or get treated to a trip to family in Florida. I have taught lessons for over 3 years with ages 4 months through adults. Now, Im a mom, RN, and lifeguard too. Cheers.

Instructor Richard S. profile Card Image

Richard S.

Washington, District of Columbia 20024

Certification N/A

Im Richard Smith, a certified swim instructor and aquatic program leader with over five years of experience helping swimmers of all ages build confidence and skill in the water. My passion for swimming started youngI competed throughout grade school and high schooland its been a core part of my wellness journey ever since. Over the years, Ive taught parent-and-child classes, youth and adult group lessons, and private one-on-one sessions. Whether youre a first-timer with water anxiety or someone looking to improve your technique, I believe that everyone can learn to swimand should. My approach is supportive, patient, and focused on helping you feel safe, strong, and comfortable in the water.

Instructor Sam G. profile Card Image

Sam G.

Temple Hills, Maryland 20748

Sunsational Certified Since 2024

Hey Im Coach Sam, I teach all ages 3 months to 100 years of age how to swim! I teach at all levels as well, so if you are a beginner or an expert and want to improve Im your guy! Looking forward to helping all my students on their swim journey!

Instructor AnQuniece W. profile Card Image

AnQuniece W.

Washington, DC 20002

Sunsational Certified Since 2017

Hi, my name is Anquniece and I have been teaching swim lessons for 5 yrs with toddlers-18 years old. I have been working with children for 6 yrs as a camp counselor, swim instructor, & teacher aid. I have worked with special needs children & disabled children. I go to Gallaudet University and am majoring in Biology/Chemistry. I have been swimming competitively for 8 yrs and have been a lifeguard for 5 yrs. I love teaching swimming because it is the best form of therapy and relaxation.

Instructor Aubrey H. profile Card Image

Aubrey H.

Washington, District of Columbia 20052

Certification N/A

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

Certification N/A

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 Madeline P. profile Card Image

Madeline P.

Washington, District of Columbia 20002

Certification N/A

Hi there! I am originally from Boulder, Colorado, where I grew up swimming competitively. I began teaching lessons in March 2014, and since then, Ive taught kids of all ages and skill levelsfrom six-month-olds to competition teamsand adults too! I love to teach lessons because it is so rewarding to teach a lifelong skill and have fun doing it! In my class, we will focus on water safety and learning and perfecting the strokes with plenty of games along the way.

Instructor Meghan B. profile Card Image

Meghan B.

Washington, DC 20002

Sunsational Certified Since 2025

Hi, my name is Meghan! I swam competitively for 9 years. I've been coaching and teaching swimming lessons on & off for 14 years. I've also worked as a babysitter on and off for 16 years. In addition, I am a family law attorney, so I spend a great deal of time working with families. I went to Miami University for undergrad, and I went to the University of Louisville for law school. I love teaching swimming because it is a wonderful sport, and I love working with kids!

Instructor Kyree J. profile Card Image

Kyree J.

Arlington, VA 22209

Sunsational Certified Since 2017

Hi, my name is Kyree and I have taught swimming lessons for 3 years with ages ranging from 2 to 62. I've also done volunteer work with special needs children helping them to get acclimated to the water for 4 seasons. I have been a Lifeguard/poolmanager for 4 years. I teach swimming because everyone should know how to swim no matter the age. One of my favorite moments is when you achive something you never thought possible. Times like that inspire me to want to teach everyone!!

Instructor Diana G. profile Card Image

Diana G.

Washington, DC 20036

Sunsational Certified Since 2017

Hi! My name is Diana and I have been teaching private and group swim lessons of children age 2-15 for 8 years. I swam competitively through college and am highly knowledgeable about the technique and safety measures required in swimming. I absolutely love sharing my passion for swimming with young swimmers! I attended the University of Delaware and completed a bachelors degree in International Business and currently work in non-profit fundraising.

Instructor Sheila K. profile Card Image

Sheila K.

Arlington, VA 22204

Sunsational Certified Since 2017

Hello! My name is Sheila, a California native, and swimmer for 15+ years. with 6 years of expertise as a lifeguard & swim instructor. I conduct private lessons & group classes, teaching children of all levels, from beginner to pre-swim team & adults. I have a BA in Poli Sci, LMU (2013), & dual Master's from Syracuse University (M.A. IR & M.S. PR, 2015). As a former professional water polo player & swimmer, I particularly enjoy focusing on stroke technique with children at a young age.

Instructor Stephanie S. profile Card Image

Stephanie S.

Rosslyn, VA 22209

Certification N/A

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 Certified 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 Diya S. profile Card Image

Diya S.

Washington, DC 20036

Sunsational Certified Since 2024

Hi! Im Diya, a 19-year-old with 15 years of swimming experience. I've competed for almost 10 years and have been coaching for the past 3 years. With a strong background in teaching and managing swim programs, Im passionate about designing engaging and effective lessons for swimmers of all ages and skill levels. My goal is to create a supportive and enjoyable environment where you can achieve your swimming goals. I look forward to potentially working together and making a splash!

Instructor Eric N. profile Card Image

Eric N.

Arlington, Virginia 22204

Sunsational Certified 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 Abby K. profile Card Image

Abby K.

Washington, District of Columbia 20008

Sunsational Certified 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 Jaila S. profile Card Image

Jaila S.

Washington, DC 20059

Sunsational Certified Since 2017

Hello! My name is Jaila, and I have taught swim lessons for 3 years with all ages and skill levels. I am also a swim coach for the Brockton Barracuda's Special Olympics team. I also have experience as an assistant helper in a daycare where I am also the head lifeguard. I like to teach swim lessons because the children I have taught allow for be to keep a positive attitude in life and makes me feel good knowing they are safe around pools due to the knowledge they gain from swimming classes.

Instructor Tiara J. profile Card Image

Tiara J.

Washington, DC 20001

Certification N/A

Hi! My name is Tiara, and Im currently studying Biology with a minor in Chemistry and Japanese at Howard University, where Im also a Division I swimmer. Ive been in the water as a swimmer my whole life, and I currently work as both a lifeguard and swim instructor. I have experience teaching swimmers of all ages, from young children to adults, and Im passionate about helping everyone feel confident and safe in the water. Although Ive worked with all age groups, from young kids to adults, I feel the best when teaching confident kids and adults who are excited to learn how to swim! I like to make each lesson fun, encouraging, and tailored to your goals. I cant wait to share my love for swimming with you!

Instructor Jamie O. profile Card Image

Jamie O.

Arlington, Virginia 22203

Sunsational Certified Since 2019

Hi my name is Jamie and I`ve been teaching swim lessons for 4 years. I`ve taught boys and girls ages 5-13 with varying skill levels. I`ve also worked as a camp counselor for 6 summers and coached a 2nd grade girls` soccer team this past Fall. I love teaching swimming because I believe swimming is a skill that everyone should learn. I love helping kids grow and most importantly having fun while learning!

Loading...

Are You A Swim Instructor?

Find out how you can become a Sunsational Instructor and enjoy flexible scheduling, competitive compensation and a chance to make a difference!

Sunsational Swim Instructor with students

Search our Serviced Locations

Find out if a Sunsational Swim instructor is in your area

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!ℱ

Image Sun

©Sunsational Swim School LLC 2025- Private At-Home Swim Lessons of America

Proudly founded in Los Angeles, Headquartered in San Diego & Serving All America Business 1-301-235-2661