Toddler swim lessons inSan Mateo
Looking for the best private toddler swimming lessons near me? Itâs always a Sunsational time to learn to swim in San Mateo! Our private swim lessons ensure rapid progress in essential water safety skills.
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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 Mateo.
What are survival float lessons?
San Mateo 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 Mateo 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 Mateo 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 Mateo 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
77
/ 30 minutes
106
/ HOUR
BEST VALUE
12 lessons
82
/ 30 minutes
112
/ HOUR
MOST POPULAR
6 lessons
90
/ 30 minutes
125
/ 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!
Sanam G.
Burlingame, California 94010
Certification N/A
Hi, Im a lifelong water lover with experience as a swim instructor, coach, lifeguard, and water polo coachI even still play Masters water polo for fun! Whether youre just getting comfortable in the water or training to improve your technique, Im here to help you reach your goals and have a great time doing it. I studied Exercise Science at Cal Poly and earned my Masters in Healthcare Administration from Columbia University.
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!
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.
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.
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.
Stanley P.
Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
Sunsational Certified Since 2019
Hello, my name is Stanley and I have taught water safety and swim lessons with ages from 3 to adults. I have worked with children since college as private tutor, skiing coach, outreach programs, and volunteers. I love teaching swimming because I love it when people learn new skill for life. Safety is number when it comes to water. So making friends with water is what I am best at introducing beginners. After that, anything is possible.
Kaylie M.
Pacifica, California 94044
Certification N/A
Hi! My name is Kaylie, and Im a kindergarten teacher and certified swim instructor with a deep passion for helping children grow in confidenceboth in the classroom and in the water. I hold my California teaching credential and bring a patient, encouraging approach to every lesson. I played college water polo and swam competitively. I also spent many years as a lifeguard, where I developed a strong focus on water safety and prevention skills. I have worked with many neurodivergent students and tailor my lessons to meet each swimmers individual needs and learning styles. My goal is to create a safe, positive, and empowering environment where every swimmer feels confident, supported, and excited to learn.
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!
Juliana W.
Pacifica, CA 94044
Sunsational Certified Since 2018
Hi, my name is Jules and I've been teaching swim lessons for 8 years with ages 3 months through 80 years old. I've also worked with children and adults for 5 years through the local Special Olympics team. I swam competitively for 10 years and played water polo for 5 years. I went to UC Davis and earned a degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering in 2014. I love working with children and watching them succeed and become water safe.
Sheris M.
Daly City, CA 94015
Sunsational Certified Since 2023
Hi there! My name is Sheris! I've swam for over 10 years in a competitive swim team, and have 3 years of experience teaching swim lessons for children 3yrs. to adults. I've worked as an after-school elementary teacher and YMCA lifeguard. This year in 2023 I received my Bachelor's in Psychology at UC Berkeley. I love teaching because I enjoy motivating and seeing students improve in the water. It is so rewarding and I'm excited to work with amazing soon-to-be fishes in the water!
Michael G.
Daly City, CA 94014
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hi, my name is Mike and I`ve been teaching swim lessons for over 5 years with ages 2.5-82. I`ve also worked with children for 32 years as a wrestling coach and teacher. I went to UCLA and earned a BA in History in 1985 and USF Law School in 1989, where I earned a Juris-Doctorate. I love teaching swimming because it is an important survival skill.
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.
Amber L.
San Francisco, CA 94112
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hi there! I'm Amber and I LOVE teaching swim lessons. I've worked for two summers as a swim instructor and lifeguard for my city and I've also assisted swim classes for my college. I have taught private lessons for many years and it is such an encouragement to see my swimmers grow. Ages I have worked with include 6 mo's. to 25 years old. I have two major goals I aim to accomplish: for you and your swimmer(s) to be confident in and around the pool and to improve.Have a great swim!Amber
Pablo V.
San Leandro, CA 94579
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hi, I'm Pablo and I've been teaching swim lessons for two years with ages 3 to 60. Before this, I was also the leader of a youth choir for a year - working with ages 6 to 20. I'm currently a freshman at Cal State Univ. East Bay and pursuing a bachelors degree in communications. I swam competetively during high school on the varsity swim team. I enjoy teaching swimming because I believe it is an essential life skill - and I'm grateful to be a promoter of it. Also, it's fun to work with children!
Sara C.
Daly City, CA 94015
Sunsational Certified Since 2021
Hello, my name is Sara and I have nearly 20 years of personal swimming experience as well as over 10 years of experience working with children. I have been a babysitter, nanny, camp counselor, after school care worker, and swim instructor. I have been teaching swim lessons for 3 years and am capable of teaching students of all ages and skill levels. I am passionate about swimming and my favorite part of teaching is seeing my students have fun and gain confidence in the water!
Hana T.
Daly City, CA 94015
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hi, my name's Hana! I enjoy teaching people how to swim because it's a great life skill and it makes pool and beach days a lot more fun. I swam competitively on my high school and college swim team. I was also on my high school's water polo team for 3 years where I continued my love for water sports. I have been teaching swimming skills to the public for 7 years and I have worked with 2 to 40 year-olds.
Hailey H.
San Leandro, California 94579
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
My strong connection with water and children has deeply influenced my career. From babysitter to in-home nanny, I found my passion for nurturing young minds. As a private swim coach for ages 1 to adults, I enjoy teaching swimming skills and building confidence around water. Since February 2021, I have specialized in swim lessons for children needing extra support. Its rewarding to see breakthroughs, such as children with autism swimming independently after tailored coaching.
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!
Sasha S.
San Francisco, California 94107
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hey there! Im Sasha- I'm a swim instructor who's passionate about helping students feel comfortable and confident in the water, so they can free their inner fish. I used to live in Shanghai and worked at a preschool, so I'm passionate about bringing new experiences to curious learners. I have experience teaching all ages, including adults. In my free time, I love triathlons and stand up paddle boarding basically anything that involves being near the water! I'm excited to teach students the skills they need to be confident swimmers and teach skills to keep this hobby for life.
Emily L.
San Leandro, California 94577
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hello! My name is Emily. I began swim lessons when I turned 3. I have been competitively swimming on a club and high school team since I was 7 all the way up until I graduated high school. I have been swim instructing at the YMCA and I have plenty of experience swim instructing for all age groups, from as early as 6 months to up to 40 year olds.
Sergio R.
Alameda, CA 94501
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hi, I'm Sergio! In Colombia, I was part of the Valle Del Cauca National Swim Team. I also swam competitively in the USA for the American Swimmers Club and at the collegiate level at Chabot College. I've been teaching swim lessons for 3 years now to a wide range of age, background, skill set and abilities. My favorite thing about teaching swim lessons is seeing my students fall in love with swimming and gain confidence in and around the water. See you soon!
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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 Mateo, our instructors teach year-round, so you can start lessons whenever youâre ready.
YesâSunsationalâs instructors in San Mateo 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 Mateo 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 Mateo 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 Mateo 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 Mateo, where many families enjoy backyard pools, community centers or neighborhood pool time, lap swim, 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 Mateo and nearby neighborhoods in South Bay. 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 Mateo, 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.