Toddler swim lessons inNorthfield
Looking for the best private toddler swimming lessons near me? Itâs always a Sunsational time to learn to swim in Northfield! Our private swim lessons ensure rapid progress in essential water safety skills.
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Sunsational Swim instructors
Safe, fun, and taught at home!
With our Learn-to-Swim Guarantee, if your toddler canât demonstrate the âSunsational Swim Sequenceâ by the twelfth lesson, weâll give you up to four additional classes for free!
Sunsational Swim School brings essential swim skills to your home pool or local community pool, helping everyone enjoy the water more safely across the Northfield.
What are survival float lessons?
Northfield 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 âforced back floatingâ, 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 Northfield use gentle encouragement and positive reinforcement, which helps toddlers develop water skills in a fun, nurturing environment. Weâre committed to building a foundation of water confidence.
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 â even when a caregiver is nearby. In fact:
Swimming lessons can save lives. Give your toddler the gift of swimming which lasts a lifetime!
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
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 kidâs safety and confidence in the water.
Kids swimming lessons reduce the risk of drowning
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 isnât just about safety, itâs 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
Swimming isnât just a fun activity and an important life skill, itâs 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 theyâve 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
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Group Swim Lessons
Quick Results with 30+ minutes of individualised instruction
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Slow Progress with limited 1-on-1 attention
Flexible scheduling, book multiple kids back-to-back
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Flexible scheduling, may vary for each child
Save time lessons at your home or community pool
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Time-Consuming - travel required to and from lessons
Faster Progression saves money in the long run
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More Sessions Needed Needed to see real progress
Why choose Sunsational Swim School for your toddlerâs 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
Northfield 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 Northfield 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!
Toddler lessons
The more lessons you buy, the more you save!
1 Student
30 - 45 Minute private Lessons
18 lessons
59
/ 30 minutes
84
/ HOUR
BEST VALUE
12 lessons
64
/ 30 minutes
88
/ HOUR
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!
Sarina K.
Morton Grove, Il 60053
Certification N/A
Hi, my name is Sarina, and I have been teaching swim lessons since March 2021, working with kids ranging from 6 years old to adults. I have been competitively swimming for 9 years now. I have also lifeguarded for 2 years, giving me the opportunity to work with kids and their safety. I am currently a sophomore at Virginia Tech studying materials science engineering. I have always loved teaching young kids how to safely have fun and swim in the water since it is a skill I use frequently!
Jacob G.
Northbrook, Illinois 60062
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hello! My name is Jacob, and I am beyond excited to get started. I was a state-qualifying swimmer for 4 years at Glenbrook South, and now I play Division 1 water polo. I have been in the water for as long as I can remember, and I would love nothing more than to share my swimming experience.
Ernest R.
Glenview, Illinois 60025
Certification N/A
Hello! Im Eric, a rising sophomore at Emory University, a state and national-level swimmer with numerous top placements, and the current captain of the Emory Swim Club. Im a former varsity swim team captain with over 10 years of competitive experience, and I specialize in all four strokes. Ive coached and mentored swimmers of all levelsfrom beginners learning the basics to advanced athletes refining technique. My approach is patient, encouraging, and tailored to each swimmers goals, whether thats improving stroke mechanics, building endurance, or boosting confidence in the water. Im passionate about helping others enjoy the sport as much as I do.
Naomi A.
Skokie, Illinois 60077
Certification N/A
Hey Aqua buddies! Im Naomi, and I am one of the swim instructors here at Sunsational! I have been teaching swimming lessons since February 2020. I love teaching kids of all ages, teenagers, young, and older adults how to swim in aquatic waters. I am high-spirited, welcoming, and a supportive coach. Come learn with me today, and lets splash!
Melissa M.
Skokie, Illinois 60076
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hi! My name is Melissa and I am currently getting my degree for political science at DePaul University. I swam competitively in high school, worked for Wilmette Park District and British Swim school as a swim instructor. I have experience with children from 7 months to adults. Im excited to teach kids how amazing swimming is!
Maximilian T.
Evanston, IL 60201
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hi,My name is Max and I have been teaching swimming for ages 3 and up. I have also worked with kids for the past few years as a camp counselor, babysitter, and a preschool teacher assistant. I graduated from beacon academy my junior year in 2017. I love teaching swimming lessons because its a very important skill for everyone to learn, and its a lot of fun!
nolan i.
Evanston, Illinois 60202-3220
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hello! My name is Nolan Irving. I'm 19 years old, and I am currently in my sophomore year at UIC. I am a former competitive swim coach, and I have been doing swim instruction since August 2022. I have lots of experience with younger (and very anxious/neurodivergent) swimmers aged 1-14!
Victoria K.
Chicago, Illinois 60626
Certification N/A
Hi! I love teaching Learn to Swim as it combines two of my passions: swimming and teaching. My swimming journey started as a child taking swim lessons and then joining a club and high school swim teams. As an adult, I am now a triathlete and continue to swim laps mostly in Lake Michigan. I've had experience teaching Learn to Swim since September 2021, both as an instructor and as the pool director for a summer camp, where I managed and supported a team of seven swim instructors. When I'm not teaching swim lessons or swimming myself, I work as a preschool teacher in Chicago. I have experience working with a wide range of ages, as I have taught second and third grade in the past as well. I look forward to swimming with you!
Ava J.
chicago, Illinois 60631
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hi, I am Ava Jimenez. I am a junior currently going to Illinois State University. I have been a lifeguard and swim instructor for 4 years. I have previously played competitive water polo and was an assistant coach for a team. I am excited to share my passion for the water with students ages 2 - adults!
Jeff B.
Chicago, IL 60645
Sunsational Certified Since 2018
Jeff`s passion for swimming began before he could walk. His experience includes, swim coaching and instruction to all ability levels from ages six to 75. He is certified through the American Swimming Coaches Assn. and holds an M.S. in Kinesiology from The University of Michigan. He has held positions as swim instructor and coach at community pools, summer camps and as swim coach for the Northwestern University Triathlon Team. Jeff is a U.S. Masters swimmer and Masters rower.
Madison V.
Riverwoods, Illinois 60015
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hi! Im Maddie, and Ive been teaching swim lessons since February 2019. Im licensed in behavioral therapy and have experience working with kids with special needs ages 220. I started teaching swim at 14 and have worked with ages 218 ever since. I was introduced to CPR and water safety early on, and Ive helped over 80 kids pass weekly swim tests. With about 7 years of experience working with children, my goal is to make swimming fun, safe, and something every child can enjoy and feel proud of!
Janet S.
Chicago, Illinois 60630-4676
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Im Jan and Ive been a swim instructor for more than 20 years. Working in both community programs and private lessons. I teach ages 2 - adults, though I am open to special needs learners too. I am passionate about sharing my love of the water by teaching swimming! I want to teach you how to be safe in the water and swim so that you have a new skill when you go back to school. And to any adults who have always wanted to learn, this summer would be a good time.
Brenna L.
Arlington Heights, IL 60004
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hi families!! My name is Brenna and Im so excited about the opportunity to be teaching you all! I was a competitive swimmer for 8 years and have 6 years of instructing experience. Ive taught all skills and abilities ages ranging from 6 months to 85 years of age (because its never too late!). I was also a lifeguard for 5 years. I was also a swim coach for a 8&U boys and girls at a nearby park district for 3 years!! I cant wait to get to know all of you and help you grow!
Elizabeth W.
Lincolnshire, Illinois 60069
Sunsational Certified Since 2023
Hello, my name is Elizabeth and I have over 3 years of experience in teaching individual and group lessons along with coaching swimmers at the competitive level, ages infants to adults. I also have been a personal trainer for ages 8-14, and as a college/career consultant for high school-aged children. I love teaching swimming because I believe is a very necessary skill to have, as well as being a great way to allow my clients to grow while helping push them past their fears.
Kathryn (Crickett) C.
Chicago, Illinois 60641
Certification N/A
Heya! My name is Crickett, and I am so pumped to hop in the water with your little one! I am the former Aquatics Director of a family-oriented country club. I oversaw private and group swim lessons, as well as a competitive youth swim team, giving me a wide range of teaching experience from beginners to advanced swimmers. Im a certified Lifeguard Instructor and now work in critical care transport EMS, so safety is always my top priority. I have tons of games and fun toys to bring alongside the hard work we will be putting in the pool!
Joy S.
Chicago, IL 60647
Sunsational Certified Since 2019
Hi, my name is Joy and I've been teaching swim lessons for 7 years with ages 3 months to 80 years. I've also worked with children for 13 years as a a youth group counselor and a babysitter. I went to Seton Hall University and earned a degree in Psychology in 2013. I love teaching swimming because it brings me great joy to see children learning and progressing and this particular skill.
Samantha N.
Chicago, IL 60647
Sunsational Certified Since 2025
Hi! My name is Sam. I've been teaching swim lessons for over two years. I have worked with a range of people, including babies, children, teenagers and adults. I've worked with children for 8 years as a camp counselor, babysitter, coach, and teacher assistant. I went to UIC and graduated in 2018 with 2 degrees in criminal justice and psychology. I love teaching swimming because I love to see the progress of my swimmers who went from not knowing how to swim to being able to swim on their own.
Miguel Angel M.
Chicago, Illinois 60613
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hello and welcome! Im Miguel, and Im excited to help you achieve your swimming goals. With a background in Physical Education and a masters in Physiology, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to our sessions. Over the past seven years, Ive worked as a lifeguard, swim instructor, and triathlon coach for both children and adults in the United States and Colombia. Im passionate about sharing my expertise and believe that with the right plan, anything can be taught and learned. Thank you for choosing Sunsational! Im confident that together we can enhance your swimming skills, whether you aim to compete or simply enjoy the water safely.
Julia H.
Chicago, IL 60647
Sunsational Certified Since 2025
Hello, my name is Julia. I've been teaching swimming for 5 years to children age 2 and older, as well as to adults. I am a school teacher and tutor as well with 18 years experience. My education background is in Environmental Studies. I love teaching swimming because I believe I am helping children stay safe and enjoy the water. I recall learning to swim as a child from instructors at an indoor pool in New York City. Now I use those skills to stay healthy and help others.
Sonia B.
Chicago, IL 60707
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hi, I'm Sonia, teacher w/30+ yrs in/out of the water. Love of water and competitively swimming(HS) lead to being a Life Guard& Water Safety, Life Guard and Canoe Instructor. Taught swimming at all levels, infant-adults, at YWCA, JCC, NW Sports Camp, Baker Dem, and Manley HS in LG/SM groups(schools/camps), privately and coaching. Watching someone gain confidence, seeing concrete skill growth and the joy they have in their accomplishments in the water is rewarding
Zahra J.
Chicago, Illinois 60657
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hi! Im Zahra. I have been teaching swim lessons for about 5 years and coaching for 1 year. I am experienced with all levels and place a great emphasis on water safety. I love to teach and look forward to having the opportunity to do so!
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Available all across the USA!
Got questions?
We have answers. When should toddlers start swim lessons?
We make scheduling easy. Morning, afternoon, evening, and weekend lessons are avaialble 6AM-8PM to fit your familyâs 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 Northfield, our instructors teach year-round, so you can start lessons whenever youâre ready.
YesâSunsationalâs instructors in Northfield 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 edgeâwhat 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 childâs 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 Northfield 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 Northfield start floating, kicking, and swimming short distances within a few weeks of consistent lessons. Sunsationalâs personalized approachâtaught in your own poolâhelps 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 weâll provide up to four additional lessons free until they do.
Most parents in Northfield 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. Sunsationalâs certified instructors in {{metroAarea}} customize lessons to your toddlerâs 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 confidenceâbut the biggest benefit is safety. In Northfield, where many families enjoy indoor pools, park district pools, beaches or indoor lap swim, Lake Michigan summers, 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 Northfield and nearby neighborhoods in Chicagoland. 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 Northfield, 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.