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Special Needs Swim Lessons in Old Town

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 Old Town, CA!

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 Old Town. 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 Old Town 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 Old Town, CA

We believe our students deserve the best, so we work with only the best swim instructors in Old Town. 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: Linnea R.

Linnea R.

San Diego, California 92110

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Santiago G.

Santiago G.

San Diego, California 92110

Swim Instructor Profile Image: TOM R.

TOM R.

San Diego, CA 92110

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Kylee P.

Kylee P.

San Diego, California 92106

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Brianna M.

Brianna M.

San Diego, California 92108

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Krystal L.

Krystal L.

San Diego, California 92111

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Stephen L.

Stephen L.

San Diego, California 92107

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Tyler T.

Tyler T.

San Diego, California 92109

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Kristin D.

Kristin D.

San Diego, California 92111

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Hannah T.

Hannah T.

San Diego, California 92106

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Lillian B.

Lillian B.

San Diego, California 92116

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Laura M.

Laura M.

San Diego, CA 92109

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 Old Town

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

$

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 Fiona B. profile Card Image

Fiona B.

San Diego, CA 92103

Sunsational Certified Since 2018

❀ I've been teaching swimming for the last 27 years in different countries and still it's my passion! Water is one of the main elements to us and it's my pleasure to make the connection between people and this magical environment 😊 I am a certified dental technician and graphic designer but I've got more fun with my scuba & freediving certifications đŸ©” Let's have a pleasant time while we are in the water and learn more about this relaxing skill 🐬

Instructor Linnea R. profile Card Image

Linnea R.

San Diego, California 92110

Certification N/A

Hi! My name is Linnea, and Im originally from Minneapolis, Minnesota, where I grew up spending summers at the lake and developed a lifelong love of the water. I participated on my high school swim team for three years and gained additional experience as a lifeguard at a local water park. Since February 2023, I have enjoyed teaching swim lessons and helping swimmers of all ages build both skill and confidence in the water. I strive to create a fun, supportive, and encouraging environment where students feel safe and excited to learn.

Instructor Santiago G. profile Card Image

Santiago G.

San Diego, California 92110

Certification N/A

I grew up in the water and went on to become a Division 1 athlete at the University of San Diego, where swimming and rowing taught me discipline, patience, and the importance of great technique. Ive worked with kids of all ages and beginners learning to love the water, and I focus on building confidence step by step. My teaching style is supportive, fun, and safety-first, so students feel comfortable while progressing at their own pace. Whether the goal is floating, swimming independently, or refining strokes, I bring positive energy and clear instruction to every lesson.

Instructor Megan B. profile Card Image

Megan B.

San Diego, CA 92110

Sunsational Certified Since 2017

Hi! My name is Megan and I have taught swim lessons for over 2.5 years to people of all ages and abilities. I was the Senior Lifeguard during that time where I taught lessons and coached a swim team. I also worked as a Recreation Leader during that time coaching Pee Wee Sports and an after school activities program. I love working with kids because I feel they teach me as much as I teach them! I started swimming competitively in 2014 and have loved it since! I look forward to meeting you!

Instructor Mark B. profile Card Image

Mark B.

San Diego, CA 92107

Sunsational Certified Since 2018

Hey there, my name is Mark and I love teaching people the joys swimming can bring. I was a competitive swimmer for over 10 years and have formally taught swim lessons for 4 years. I have taught functional swimming to children as young as 3 and stroke refinement to the college level. I love seeing my students progress and gain confidence in the water through safety centered lessons.

Instructor Jacquelyn C. profile Card Image

Jacquelyn C.

San Diego, CA 92110

Sunsational Certified Since 2018

Hi, my name is Jacquelyn Campbell and I've been teaching swim lessons for 3 years with ages between 2-30. I've worked with children throughout my life though aiding in elementary school classes and assistive coaching. I am currently a senior at San Diego State University studying kinesiology- exercise science. By far the most important aspect of my individuality is my personal experience in swimming and my ability to connect to people and understand what they need to become a swimmer.

Instructor Mary H. profile Card Image

Mary H.

San Diego, CA 92107

Sunsational Certified Since 2019

Hi, my name is Mary and my experiences include instructing swim lessons, coaching and being a lifeguard. I have taught infants through adults at all ability levels how to swim. I studied Biology at UCSD, where I swam on the Master's swim team. Other water activities I enjoy include ocean swimming, surfing, SCUBA diving and sprint triathlons. I am kind, patient and reassuring. I love teaching swimming, because it is rewarding to share my love of the water and water safety!

Instructor TOM R. profile Card Image

TOM R.

San Diego, CA 92110

Sunsational Certified Since 2023

Hi, my name is Tom, and I've been teaching people swim lessons for 2 years. I work with all ages, but my specialty is with younger children (ages 2 – 6), as I've worked as a substitute preschool teacher for the past sixteen years and have a good rapport with young children. I went to Cal Poly Humboldt and earned my bachelor’s degree in Child Development. I love teaching swimming because I’m a fish out of water, and I love to introduce people to do this wonderful sport and activity.

Instructor Kylee P. profile Card Image

Kylee P.

San Diego, California 92106

Certification N/A

Hi! My name is Kylee! I have taught swim lessons since November 2019, half of that time being spent teaching in-home pools and community pools. While teaching, I was also a nanny for 5 years for 3 little boys! I have taught children as young as 4 months old to children 14 years old. I specialize in water safety skills and basic stroke technique. I have experience teaching group parent/baby classes, individual lessons, and semi-private lessons. I am a very patient person who works hard to make sure your child is comfortable in the water so that lessons are fun and educational! I am looking forward to making your child water safe!

Instructor Pauline S. profile Card Image

Pauline S.

San Diego, California 92107

Certification N/A

Hi! I go by "P.J." I specialize in working with ages 2 and up, turning non-swimmers into happy little swimmers. It has been a few years since I last taught swim lessons, and I am thrilled I have this opportunity to be back in the pool. Teaching children to swim is the most rewarding job I have ever had! I am super excited about teaching young San Diegans how to have fun in the pool while also learning important skills to keep them safe in the water.

Instructor Brianna M. profile Card Image

Brianna M.

San Diego, California 92108

Certification N/A

Hi! My name is Brianna. I recently graduated from Clemson and am new to San Diego! I grew up on the water and have been swimming my whole life. I taught swimming lessons at a rec center when I was in college and loved it! I have worked with all ages, ranging from 1 to 14, and have created specific lessons based on the needs of each student! I have experience with students with special needs and those that need specific accommodations, and I am comfortable working with them. I have a pretty open schedule at the moment and would love to find a time that works best for you and your family!

Instructor Mia P. profile Card Image

Mia P.

San Diego, CA 92101

Sunsational Certified Since 2017

Hi!! My name is Mia and I've been a swim instructor for 3 years and worked with children between 6 months and 13 years old! I've worked in classrooms, daycares, as a tutor, and a special educator for 7. I completed my Elem. and Special ed. degree through Grand Canyon University in AZ in April 2019. I love being a swim instructor because I get to see a child recognize their growth and ability to step out of their comfort zone when learning to be comfortable and capable in the water!!

Instructor Kelly C. profile Card Image

Kelly C.

San Diego, CA 92107

Sunsational Certified Since 2018

Hello everyone, my name is Kelly. I have been teaching swimming for 13 years, both privately and for teams. I have been swimming since I was 9 years. I swan in high school and played water polo through college at Ohio Stat University. I have taught all ages and I firmly believe everyone learns differently and in their own way. I have a great passion for swimming and everything water. I look forward to meeting and working with you.

Instructor Robyn H. profile Card Image

Robyn H.

San Diego, CA 92107

Sunsational Certified Since 2017

Hello,My name is Robyn and I have been teaching swim for about 5 years now. I have experience with children of all ages and would feel comfortable teaching adults as well. My experience with kids started as a babysitter at about age 14. I love working with children and watching them grow. I have since been a tutor, teacher's aid, and nanny for many years. I am now 28 years old and working on a nursing degree. Please let me know if you have any questions for me.

Instructor Ivanna A. profile Card Image

Ivanna A.

San Diego, CA 92101

Sunsational Certified Since 2017

Hi! My name is Ivanna and graduated from San Diego State University with a Master's of Science in Clinical Counseling & a double degree in Psychology and Child and Family Development. I swam competitively in high school, worked for summer camps at the YMCA Mission Valley as a swim and surf instructor, and a toddler teacher for KinderCare. As a well as a head swim coach for Special Olympics in San Diego. I hope I can teach children to love the water as much as I do!

Instructor Shawn A. profile Card Image

Shawn A.

San Diego, CA 92104

Sunsational Certified Since 2017

Hello, my name is Shawn. I'm on my 6th year of teaching swim lessons to participants ages 2 to 25 and I've lifeguarded for 6+ years. I have 1 year of experience working with children with autism, cerebral palsy, and developmental delays as a volunteer for an Occupational Therapy based martial arts program and as a professional ABA Behavioral Therapist. I recently graduated from the University of California, Irvine and acquired a degree in Cognitive Psychology.

Instructor Krystal L. profile Card Image

Krystal L.

San Diego, California 92111

Certification N/A

Hi! Im a former Division 1 athlete from the University of Utah. I have been swimming since I was 3 years old, and I have a passion for teaching the sport to all ages, including adults! I also have experience working with those who are fearful of the water. I look forward to swimming with you!

Instructor Stephen L. profile Card Image

Stephen L.

San Diego, California 92107

Certification N/A

Hello! I'm Stephen, and I love everything to do with the water. Teaching kids to swim is one of the most beautiful things I get to do because the joy and health that becomes available to someone with confidence and safety abilities in water is priceless and incomparable. It is my joy to bring this forward as a swim instructor and teach swimming in a way that is intuitive, personalized, and oriented for long-term development in water safety, confidence, and fun. I have Red Cross certifications in CPR, lifeguarding, open water, and water safety. I have experience working with infants all the way up to senior citizens and everyone in between, in group and private settings. Let's hop in the pool together!

Instructor Carson R. profile Card Image

Carson R.

San Diego, California 92103

Certification N/A

Hey, Im Carson! I have a passion for teaching swimming to all ages at different skill levels and seeing them become more confident in the water. My hobbies outside the pool continue in the ocean with surfing and paddling, so my love for the water is deep.

Instructor Quintin M. profile Card Image

Quintin M.

San Diego, CA 92101

Sunsational Certified Since 2018

Hi, I am instructor Quintin and I have been teaching swim lessons for about two years now. I've worked with skill levels from just beginning (afraid to get in the water) to working with more experienced swimmers who want to improve the efficiency of their stroke. I have been involved with the swimming community since I was a kid, for 8 years competing year-round with a swim club and then 3 years through high school on the varsity swim team. I would love to pass on what I have learned!

Instructor John H. profile Card Image

John H.

San Diego, California 92103

Certification N/A

Hello, my name is John Hanacek. I am a lifelong swimmer, water polo player, and lifeguard. I have been in the ocean and the pool since I was 7, doing Junior Lifeguards every summer and being on a competitive swim team. I became an ocean lifeguard for California State Parks and then got to go full circle by being an instructor for the same Junior Lifeguards program. I believe everyone deserves to have the joy and confidence of swimming. I make learning fun and help young swimmers discover their confidence and power in the water to build a foundation of skills for life. I have been teaching swimming lessons since February 2021 and have experience with young students ages 3 to 15, and adults of all ages.

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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 Old Town, 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 Old Town, 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 Old Town 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 San Diego. 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

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