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Special Needs Swim Lessons in Norfolk

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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Private special needs swim lessons in Norfolk, VA!

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 Norfolk. 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 Norfolk 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 Norfolk, VA

We believe our students deserve the best, so we work with only the best swim instructors in Norfolk. 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: Matthew S.

Matthew S.

Norfolk, Virginia 23510

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Shannon D.

Shannon D.

Norfolk, Virginia 23507

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Cassidy B.

Cassidy B.

Chesapeake, Virginia 23324

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Jordan R.

Jordan R.

Portsmouth, VA 23707

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Tayvion W.

Tayvion W.

Virginia Beach, Virginia 23462

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Hannah C.

Hannah C.

Virginia Beach, Virginia 23320

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Brianna W.

Brianna W.

Virginia Beach, Virginia 23455

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Grace H.

Grace H.

Virginia Beach, Virginia 23455

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Alanna B.

Alanna B.

Virginia Beach, Virginia 23455

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Noelle H.

Noelle H.

Virginia Beach, Virginia 23455

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Victoria S.

Victoria S.

Virginia Beach, Virginia 23451

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Rachel C.

Rachel C.

Virginia Beach, VA 23464

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 Norfolk

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

$

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

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 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 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 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 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 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 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 Magnolia O. profile Card Image

Magnolia O.

Virginia Beach, Virginia 23453

Certification N/A

Hi, I'm Ms. Maggie. I have been teaching swim lessons since February 2024. I am a Water Safety Instructor (WSI) certified through the American Red Cross. Also, I have a certification in CPR and a lifeguard certification. I enjoy making a difference, knowing that I am giving children the knowledge to be safe in and around the water. I was on a competitive swim team in high school. Therefore, I have knowledge of competitive swim techniques as well as basic survival skills. I currently teach lessons on location for a family business. I am looking for more work in my free time.

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 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 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 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 Briana A. profile Card Image

Briana A.

Virginia Beach, Virginia 23452

Certification N/A

Hello, my name is Briana and I have been a swim instructor since October 2018. I've worked with swimmers of all ages and backgrounds, from as young as 3 months to adults, from swimmers who just needed additional help perfecting their strokes to those who were brand new to the water. I've coached competitive swim teams, taught private and group lessons, and coached water ballet and water polo. Having trained on swim teams myself from a young age up until college, I love the water and hope to inspire that same feeling in everyone that I teach. I'm looking forward to working with your swimmer soon!

Instructor Gina F. profile Card Image

Gina F.

Chesapeake, Virginia 23322

Certification N/A

Hi, my name is Gina Fomuso. Im 19 years old and currently a student at the University of Maryland. I have over 10 years of experience in swimming, including club and competitive swimming. I have been teaching swim lessons since March 2023 and have experience working as a lifeguard. I'm certified in CPR and Bloodborne Pathogens, and I have experience working with swimmers of all ages. I also volunteer at a hospital, where I enjoy helping others and learning more about healthcare. Here is my contact information: 619-754-5296 ginaf1219@gmail.com

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 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 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!

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 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 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!

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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 Norfolk, 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 Norfolk, 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 Norfolk 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 Virginia Beach. 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!


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