Special Needs Swim Lessons in Palo Alto

Private, at-home special needs swim lessons. One-on-one instruction for Autism, ADHD, Down Syndrome, and more – in your home pool.

Thousands of

5-star reviews

200k+

swimmers

2000+

Sunsational Swim instructors

Mobile swim lessons

Private special needs swim lessons in Palo Alto, 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 Palo Alto. 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 Palo Alto 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 Palo Alto, CA

We believe our students deserve the best, so we work with only the best swim instructors in Palo Alto. 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: Makena L.

Makena L.

Palo Alto, California 94303

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Joshua P.

Joshua P.

Mountain View, CA 94040

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Vivian R.

Vivian R.

Redwood City, California 94061

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Robert D.

Robert D.

Mountain View, California 94041-2440

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Radhika K.

Radhika K.

Mountain View, California 94040

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Katrina S.

Katrina S.

Portola Valley, CA 94028

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Rami H.

Rami H.

Newark, California 94560

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Gabriel L.

Gabriel L.

Sunnyvale, California 94087

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Elizabeth L.

Elizabeth L.

Sunnyvale, California 94086

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Bryan K.

Bryan K.

Belmont, CA 94002

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Michael H.

Michael H.

Santa Clara, California 95054

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Alexander T.

Alexander T.

Fremont, California 94555

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 Palo Alto

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

$

77

/ 30 minutes

-14%
$

106

/ HOUR

-15%

BEST VALUE

12 lessons

$

82

/ 30 minutes

-9%
$

112

/ HOUR

-10%

MOST POPULAR

6 lessons

$

90

/ 30 minutes

$

125

/ 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 Makena L. profile Card Image

Makena L.

Palo Alto, California 94303

Certification N/A

Hi! My name is Makena, and I can't wait to get into the pool and help create a safe and fun environment for kids of all ages to learn how to swim. Im passionate about making sure every child feels confident in and around water, so families can enjoy their time together at the pool worry-free! I grew up swimming competitively and was lucky to learn from coaches who are known across the country for their techniques. I have been working with children (and adults!) of all ages and skill levels since February 2023, from basic water safety to technique-focused lessons, all grounded in the American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor course. I focus on building a supportive space where lessons are tailored to fit each childs unique needs!

Instructor Joshua P. profile Card Image

Joshua P.

Mountain View, CA 94040

Sunsational Certified Since 2022

Hi! My name is Josh, and I've been instructing & lifeguarding for three years. I overcame a fear of water before swimming in high school. I have worked with kids and adults of all skill levels and ages. My favorite thing about teaching is seeing students improve. I have also worked with students on the spectrum. Previously, I helped conduct science camps for younger kids on the autism spectrum. I am a senior at Cal studying Data Science and eager to help anyone who wants to improve on swimming :)

Instructor Julia M. profile Card Image

Julia M.

Menlo Park, California 94025

Sunsational Certified Since 2024

Im a clinical psychology graduate student at PGSP-Stanford, and Ive been teaching swim lessons for 8 years. Ive been swimming competitively since the age of 6, and I attended Amherst College where I swam and played water polo. I have experience teaching both kids (1-18 years old) and adults (18+). I hope to teach students to love the water as much as I do!

Instructor Nathan B. profile Card Image

Nathan B.

Menlo Park, CA 94028

Sunsational Certified Since 2018

My 11 years of competitive swimming experience has led to a highly detailed and practical understanding of stroke technique. After over two years of swim instruction at the Burgess Pool in Menlo Park and later, private lessons around Portola Valley, Palo Alto and Menlo Park, I am able to teach students of all ages to be more comfortable in the water and have a better "feel for the water." I also have years of experience with adults who are complete beginners.

Instructor Vivian R. profile Card Image

Vivian R.

Redwood City, California 94061

Certification N/A

Hi, my name is Vivian. From a young age, I learned to swim. I joined a competitive swim team. I had fun doing competitions, and I often won. My first job was as a lifeguard and swim instructor at my local pool. I have taught in many swim schools and aquatics programs. I have been teaching since February 2015. I teach all ages, from 3-month baby classes to adult first timers. Teaching people to swim, have fun, and be safe in the water is my passion.

Instructor Robert D. profile Card Image

Robert D.

Mountain View, California 94041-2440

Sunsational Certified Since 2024

I make swimming fun for all ages! MY TRAINING: -6 years at the Farnsworth Swim School with a certification in lifeguarding -6 years with competitive swim teams MY EXPERIENCE WITH SWIM INSTRUCTION: -20+ years of experience with ages 3 and older -All popular strokes -Beginners (recreational fun), Intermediate (swim team level), Advanced (high school) MY EXPERIENCE WITH SWIM SAFETY (for ages 1-3 years, or older): Swim Safety = make it back to the edge

Instructor Thomas L. profile Card Image

Thomas L.

Redwood City, California 94062

Certification N/A

I am a retired public school teacher and administrator with many years of experience in and on the water. Sailing, kayak surfing, and snorkeling are water activities that I enjoy in my free time. I was a lifeguard and swimming instructor in college and have taught hundreds of children and dozens of adults to swim. I have also taught children and adults a variety of other water sports, including water skiing, sailing, bodyboarding, sea kayaking, and rowing. My many years of time on the water, experience as a swimming instructor, and years as a teacher have given me the skills to be an excellent swimming instructor.

Instructor Radhika K. profile Card Image

Radhika K.

Mountain View, California 94040

Certification N/A

Hi! Im Radhika, and I have been swimming for 12 years and teaching since February 2020. I have taught ages 1 to 17 years old and a couple of adults! I was also a part of my high school swim team for 3 years, where I swam and volunteered to work with new swimmers on their technique and skills. In addition to equipping kids with the necessary survival skills, I aim to make swimming as fun for them as it has been for me!

Instructor Katrina S. profile Card Image

Katrina S.

Portola Valley, CA 94028

Sunsational Certified Since 2023

Hi, I'm Katrina and I've been teaching swim lessons for 12 years to ages 3 mo. to 88 yrs old. I've also spent time working as a daycare supervisor, birth doula, and nanny. I hold a BA degree in Communications from PLU. I love supporting hesitant beginners transform into confident swimmers. I especially loved my time working with the athletes from the Special Olympics. Learning to swim at an early age afforded me many incredible experiences and it is a privilege to teach others.

Instructor Rami H. profile Card Image

Rami H.

Newark, California 94560

Certification N/A

Hello, my name is Rami, and I have been teaching swim lessons since February 2022. I am currently enrolled at San Jose State University, majoring in computer science. Swimming has always been a passion of mine since early high school. It truly brings me joy when I get to see children finally master a specific skill that they have been trying very hard to learn, which is why I am an instructor! I also like to incorporate fun into swimming to make sure children have a positive experience while in the water.

Instructor Gabriel L. profile Card Image

Gabriel L.

Sunnyvale, California 94087

Certification N/A

Hello, my name is Gabe. I have been teaching swimming for 3 years since February 2022. Im experienced with all ages, from water safety for children and infants to pre-competitive swim lessons. I have a range of experience teaching special needs children as well. In my free time, Im a PADI Rescue Diver and love being around water.

Instructor Mohamed A. profile Card Image

Mohamed A.

Belmont, CA 94002

Sunsational Certified Since 2018

Hi, my name is Moh and I have been teaching swim & squash lessons for over 3 years. I am a telecommunication engineer who received my degree in 1992. I love teaching swimming because it is my favorite sport and I want to use my experience to help others learn how to swim and enjoy the water!

Instructor Benyam A. profile Card Image

Benyam A.

Newark, CA 94560

Sunsational Certified Since 2018

Hi, my name is Ben and I've been teaching swim lessons for more than two years, ages ranging from 18 months to seniors. I am certified through USMS, YMCA ,Red Cross and NSPF in swimming and swimming related fields. I love teaching swimming because its a field where you teach someone fundamental life-saving skills .

Instructor Elizabeth L. profile Card Image

Elizabeth L.

Sunnyvale, California 94086

Certification N/A

Hello, Im Elizabeth (Liz), an experienced swim instructor since June 2017. Ive taught swimmers of all ages and abilitiesfrom beginners and children with special needs to advanced athletes refining their technique. I swam competitively for four years and have coached swimmers preparing for their swim team seasons. In previous roles, I was a highly sought-after instructor, trusted by many families for my ability to connect with swimmers and support their progress. I also have experience in childcare as a nanny for a family in the Bay Area. I create personalized lesson plans and collaborate with families to meet their goals. Im certified in CPR, First Aid, and BLS, and I focus on building skills and confidence in a safe, positive environment. I look forward to working with your child!

Instructor Bryan K. profile Card Image

Bryan K.

Belmont, CA 94002

Sunsational Certified Since 2021

Hello, I am Coach Bryan Koester. I specialize in swimming development for all ages (6 months - 90 years) and levels (beginner to competitor). I've worked in the San Francisco Bay Area since January 2010 as a swim coach/instructor and lifeguard. I have helped hundreds of children and adults reach their swimming goals on many award-winning swim teams and swim schools, including disabled adults and children. I swam competitively in high school and still love swimming with my family and friends.

Instructor Michael H. profile Card Image

Michael H.

Santa Clara, California 95054

Certification N/A

Hello future clients and students. My name is Mike. I have been involved in competitive swimming and surfing since November 1994. I have a huge passion for swimming, but more importantly, I have a huge passion for watching others achieve their goal of not just being comfortable in the water, but thriving and really enjoying themselves. I'm easy-going and very laid back, and I truly believe you'll have a great time working with me. I have experience teaching ages 1 through adults, including those with special needs.

Instructor Irma V. profile Card Image

Irma V.

Fremont, California 94538

Certification N/A

Hi! My name is Irma :) Im 26 years old and have been teaching swim lessons and lifeguarding since February 2015. I swam competitively throughout high school and have experience working with all agesfrom babies to adults. I also have over nine years of experience working in early childhood education, including as a preschool teacher and developmental specialist. I have a Bachelors degree in Child Development and am currently pursuing my Masters in Speech-Language Pathology. I'm bilingual in English and Spanish, and I love creating a fun, safe, and supportive environment for swimmers to learn and grow.

Instructor Alexander T. profile Card Image

Alexander T.

Fremont, California 94555

Sunsational Certified Since 2024

I am a competitive swimmer specializing in short-course freestyle. I have been swimming for over 10 years for clubs like CDST and MSJ. My peak placement was 9th place at the California State Championships in High School. Previously I have also coached at CDST over the summer and at Calphin Swim academy for over a year.

Instructor Nishita M. profile Card Image

Nishita M.

Fremont, California 94555

Certification N/A

Hi, Im Nishita, and I have been swimming since I was 6. I love swimming, water polo, and driving. I am very patient, which makes me well-suited to be a teacher.

Instructor juhi t. profile Card Image

juhi t.

Fremont, California 94538

Sunsational Certified Since 2024

A passionate and experienced swim instructor with several years of teaching experience, dedicated to providing a safe and enjoyable swimming environment for all ages. Skilled in creating engaging and effective lesson plans, prioritizing proper technique and water safety. Committed to helping children and adults alike develop lifelong swimming skills and a profound appreciation for the water.

Instructor Shrivardhaan B. profile Card Image

Shrivardhaan B.

San Jose, California 95129

Certification N/A

Hi! My name is Shri, and I am a current undergraduate student at UC Santa Barbara. I have been swimming for as long as I could walk! With over a decade of competitive experience, I am proficient in teaching all four strokes, as well as treading, diving, and other basic life skills. I also have prior swim coaching experience with students aged 2 through adults over 50, working on everything from getting comfortable in the water to speed work for racing, and I cant wait to meet you in the pool!

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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 Palo Alto, 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 Palo Alto, 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 Palo Alto 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 Francisco South Bay. 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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