Toddler swim lessons inSan Diego
Looking for the best private toddler swimming lessons near me? Itâs always a Sunsational time to learn to swim in San Diego! 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 San Diego.
What are survival float lessons?
San Diego 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 San Diego 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
San Diego 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 San Diego 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!
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!!
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!
Cecilia A.
San Diego, CA 92101
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hello! My name is Cecilia and I have been in the pool as soon as I can walk. I have been on 4 swim teams, played water polo and had my lifeguard certification. This past Spring 2017 semester, I have acquired my A.A. in Human Development and received my Certificate of Achievement in Family Childcare and Associate teacher. I have taught swim lessons for 2 years now, from 6 months old to 60 years of age. I love it because its great to get some sun and teach kids a sport they will never forget!
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!
Gabriella R.
San Diego, CA 92101
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hi, my name is Gabriella! Apart from being a swim instructor, I've also worked as a surf instructor (I have been surfing for 16 years), a babysitter and English teacher. I graduated with a degree in Dentistry from Brazil. I love teaching swimming because of my passion for kids and the water. I love being outdoors and believe that no matter how fun swimming can be and how much of an important life skill it is to have, safety always comes first!
Dale K.
San Diego, CA 92101
Sunsational Certified Since 2022
Hi, I'm Dale. I commenced swimming & lifeguarding at age 6 to manage my chronic asthma & eczema. I have 10 yrs of experience competing professionally and have 6 years of experience teaching ages 1 and up. In these rewarding, team-orientated sports, I developed discipline, patience, social skills, & passion for watersports. I energetically connect with people as I have a friendly disposition & a positive outlook. Learning to swim is a life skill that teaches us about water safety & keeps us fit & healthy. Come on, let's go swimming!
francisco y.
San Diego, CA 92101
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hello, my name is Frank I've been teaching swim lessons for 4 years now this will be my 5th and i have real passion for making sure everyone is safe and confident around the water. I've worked with children that are 6 months old to adults that are 50 plus years of age and everyone in between if you want to learn basic water safety or perfect your butterfly I'm your guy.
Sarah B.
San Diego, CA 92102
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hello, my name is Sarah. I love water and have many years of experience in the water. I swam on my local swim team for many years. I have also lifeguarded, taught swim lessons as well as coached swim team. I believe water safety is such an important for every individual to know. I have also taught preschool and received my Early Childhood Education Certificate from College of the Redwoods. I love teaching swim lessons for the smile on their face when they accomplish a goal.
Dolores J.
San Diego, CA 92104
Sunsational Certified Since 2016
Hello, my name is Dolores but I go by Res. I have been teaching swim lessons and life guarding for the last 18 years from newborns to elderly people with all ranges of abilities. I went to school and got my bachelors in criminal justice and my masters in forensic psychology. While attending school I played water polo and swam on the swim team. I love the water and I want everyone to be safe around it and that's why I teach swimming.
Jennifer B.
San Diego, CA 92104
Sunsational Certified Since 2021
Hi! My name is Jenn, I've been teaching swim lessons for 11 years with ages 1 to 12, adults and kids with special needs. I've worked with children for 6 years as a tutor, nanny, swim coach and day camp director. I've earned a Liberal Arts A.S. from MCC and 25 credits in Childhood Education from SUNY Cortland. I love teaching swimming, I've been competitively swimming since I was 4 and I believe knowing how to swim creates confidence in kids as well as peace of mind for parents.
Abbey A.
San Diego, CA 92102
Sunsational Certified Since 2018
Hi, my name is Abbey and I`ve been teaching swim lessons for ten years. I have taught lessons to swimmers of all ages ranging from 6 months old to 80 years old. I have also coached a swim team for 5 years. I went to California State University, Long Beach and earned my degree in Theatre Arts. I love teaching swim lessons and sharing my passion for the water. Safety is key, but having fun and learning new skills are up there as well!
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.
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
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.
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.
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!
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.
Kelly H.
San Diego, CA 92105
Sunsational Certified Since 2021
Hello, my name is Kelly and I`ve been teaching swim lessons for 17 years with ages from 2-60 years. I have also worked with children for 15 years as a nanny troughout high school and college. I went to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and received my bachelors degree in Environmental Horticulture science. I love to teach swimming because i was a competove swimmer for 24 years and it`s my passion to pass on my swimming knowledge.
Carlo C.
National City, CA 91950
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hiya! I'm Carlo, a swim teacher with 5 years experience of guiding students, from 6 months old to 86 years young, to become stronger swimmers everyday. Teaching you how to belong in the water is a job I always have time for because of the immediate and everyday impact I have students' days, lives, and safety. I have experience working with:- youth/teens- athletes- senior citizens- Autism- physical limitations- language/communication barriers- water-related trauma victims
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!
Mi C.
San Diego, California 92105
Certification N/A
Hi, I'm Mi! I'm a certified lifeguard and swim instructor at the Y, and I've loved the water for as long as I can remember. I started at age 5 and swam competitively all the way through high school. Learning to swim at a young age was truly a blessing that I hope to share with as many people as I can. When I teach, I focus on building confidence, safety, and a love for swimmingalways in a fun and supportive environment. You can expect patient, encouraging lessons that are tailored to your child's comfort level and skill set. I'm here to help your little one(s) feel at home in the water!
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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 San Diego, our instructors teach year-round, so you can start lessons whenever youâre ready.
YesâSunsationalâs instructors in San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego 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 San Diego, 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 San Diego 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 San Diego, 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.