Toddler swim lessons inOld Town
Looking for the best private toddler swimming lessons near me? Itâs always a Sunsational time to learn to swim in Old Town! 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 Old Town.
What are survival float lessons?
Old Town 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 Old Town 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
Old Town 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 Old Town 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
70
/ 30 minutes
98
/ HOUR
BEST VALUE
12 lessons
75
/ 30 minutes
104
/ HOUR
MOST POPULAR
6 lessons
80
/ 30 minutes
110
/ 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!
Fiona B.
San Diego, CA 92103
Sunsational Certified Since 2018
â€ïž 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 đ I am a certified dental technician and graphic designer but I've got more fun with my scuba & freediving certifications đ©” Let's have a pleasant time while we are in the water and learn more about this relaxing skill đŹ
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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!
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 â 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 bachelorâs degree in Child Development. I love teaching swimming because Iâm a fish out of water, and I love to introduce people to do this wonderful sport and activity.
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!
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.
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!
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!!
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.
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.
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!
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.
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!
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!
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.
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!
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. 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 Old Town, our instructors teach year-round, so you can start lessons whenever youâre ready.
YesâSunsationalâs instructors in Old Town 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 Old Town 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 Old Town 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 Old Town 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 Old Town, where many families enjoy backyard pools, community pools, beaches or beach days, home pool lessons, 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 Old Town and nearby neighborhoods in San Diego County. 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 Old Town, 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.