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Special Needs Swim Lessons in Park Ridge

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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Sunsational Swim instructors

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Private special needs swim lessons in Park Ridge, IL!

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 Park Ridge. 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 Park Ridge 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 Park Ridge, IL

We believe our students deserve the best, so we work with only the best swim instructors in Park Ridge. 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: Ava J.

Ava J.

chicago, Illinois 60631

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Ernest R.

Ernest R.

Glenview, Illinois 60025

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Melissa M.

Melissa M.

Skokie, Illinois 60076

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Kathryn (Crickett) C.

Kathryn (Crickett) C.

Chicago, Illinois 60641

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Brenna L.

Brenna L.

Arlington Heights, IL 60004

Swim Instructor Profile Image: nolan i.

nolan i.

Evanston, Illinois 60202-3220

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Victoria K.

Victoria K.

Chicago, Illinois 60626

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Amy P.

Amy P.

River Forest, Illinois 60305

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Mary R.

Mary R.

Elmhurst, Illinois 60126

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Emily M.

Emily M.

Chicago, Illinois 60642

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Cortney A.

Cortney A.

Chicago, Illinois 60610

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Madison V.

Madison V.

Riverwoods, Illinois 60015

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 Park Ridge

At Sunsational Swim School, we believe special needs swim lessons are essential, and we make them convenient for families in Park Ridge. 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 Ava J. profile Card Image

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!

Instructor Sarina K. profile Card Image

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!

Instructor Janet S. profile Card Image

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.

Instructor Ernest R. profile Card Image

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.

Instructor Naomi A. profile Card Image

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!

Instructor Melissa M. profile Card Image

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!

Instructor Kathryn (Crickett) C. profile Card Image

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!

Instructor Jacob G. profile Card Image

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.

Instructor Sonia B. profile Card Image

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

Instructor Brenna L. profile Card Image

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!

Instructor Samantha N. profile Card Image

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.

Instructor nolan i. profile Card Image

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!

Instructor Maximilian T. profile Card Image

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!

Instructor Jeff B. profile Card Image

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.

Instructor Joy S. profile Card Image

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.

Instructor Adaora U. profile Card Image

Adaora U.

Oak Park, IL 60302

Sunsational Certified Since 2017

My name is Adaora and I am a strong believer in playful and creative learning, and want to pass that value on to the children that I teach. I have 5+ years working with a diverse range of children, and my specialty is helping toddlers to overcome their initial fears of the water. I also work with children with cognitive & physical disabilities, helping them adapt to the water. I believe that children thrive in learning environments that have both structure and warmth.

Instructor Victoria K. profile Card Image

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!

Instructor Amy P. profile Card Image

Amy P.

River Forest, Illinois 60305

Sunsational Certified Since 2023

Hello families and future swimmers. My name is Amy Prah and I am thrilled to be part of your journey to becoming a safe and proficient swimmer. A little about me: I've spent many years as a competitive swimmer, then a competitive swim club coach, then an instructor to children, adults and those with special needs. So it's safe to say I have a love for the water. I am honored to work with you and look forward to helping you accomplish all of your swimming goals. See you in the pool!

Instructor Julia H. profile Card Image

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.

Instructor Mary R. profile Card Image

Mary R.

Elmhurst, Illinois 60126

Certification N/A

I have been passionate about swimming for as long as I can remember. I started as a competitive swimmer with FMC Swim Club at age 5, competing through my high school years. Over the years, I have gained extensive teaching experience, working with swimmers of all ages at the Elmhurst Park District, from toddlers to middle schoolers and even adults. Additionally, I have taught private lessons and lifeguarded at La Grange Country Club and River Forest Country Club. As a sophomore nursing student, I am driven to share my knowledge of swimming, water safety, and skill development with others. I am also CPR and AED certified, and I am eager to help swimmers of all levels feel confident and safe in the water.

Instructor Zahra J. profile Card Image

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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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 Park Ridge, 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 Park Ridge, 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 Park Ridge 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 Chicago. 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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