Toddler swim lessons inSantee
Looking for the best private toddler swimming lessons near me? Itâs always a Sunsational time to learn to swim in Santee! 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 Santee.
What are survival float lessons?
Santee 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 Santee 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
vs
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
Santee 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 Santee 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!
Kailey P.
Lakeside, CA 92040
Sunsational Certified Since 2018
Hello, my name is Kailey and I have been teaching swim lessons for 7 years with ages 8 months to 16 years. I have also worked with infants, adults, and special needs students. Before I became a lifeguard and swim instructor I did Jr. Lifeguards at the beach and at the pool. I am currently a student at SDSU working toward a degree in Kinesiology. I love teaching swimming lessons because it is very rewarding to know that I am teaching kids a life-saving skill!
Rex S.
Lakeside, CA 92040
Sunsational Certified Since 2025
Hi, my name is Rex and I've taught swim lessons, lifeguarded for the past five years and I've coached two swim teams. I've worked with all age groups, from infants to adult age. I go to UCSD and I'm currently studying to become an engineer. I was on the swim and water polo team in high school and club teams in college. I love to teach swim lessons because I really like to help kids grow in their swim ability and become more confident in the water.
Sommer M.
Santee, California 92071
Sunsational Certified Since 2024
Hi Everyone! My name is Sommer. Im 32 years old and so excited to work with you and your children! During the school year, I am a 1st-5th grade Art/Drama specialty teacher at a Charter School. I was a varsity swimmer and water polo player throughout high school and still swim as part of my workout routine. I have taught swim lessons since September 2021 for children ages 2-14. I have a love for being active and always bring positive energy to my students. :)
Patrick M.
San Diego, CA 92040
Sunsational Certified Since 2018
My name is Patrick and I've been a swim instructor for 6 months. I have taught children from 18 months to 25 years. I have experience with Autistic and children with CP. I love kids, and was a competitive swimmer for 15 years. I received my Bachelor's Degree from SDSU in 2014 in Interdisciplinary Studies. My favorite part of teaching swim lessons is watching the students develop and reach milestones in their swimming career. Seeing the joy on their face is the reason I love what I do.
Angelique V.
Lakeside, California 92040
Certification N/A
Hi. My name is Angelique Vibbard. Im a mother of three beautiful daughters (22, 18, 16). I think pool safety is very important, and Ive taught my girls all about pool safety and how to swim since they were infants. I used to be a preschool teacher for over ten years, and Im now a Special Education Teacher teaching mild/moderate students for a charter school in East County. I cant wait to help your child experience the joy of swimming by focusing on proper technique, water safety, and building confidence. Im certified in CPR/First Aid. The best moment for me is when a new swimmer realizes they can float, glide, or swim on their own.
Keith V.
Lakeside, California 92040
Certification N/A
Hello, my name is Keith Vibbard. I am a father of three daughters whom I have taught to swim, and we now enjoy time around the water, either at the pool or at the beach. I have also taught swim lessons as an instructor and lifeguard in high school and college since June 2021. My goal is to provide a safe and fun experience where your student can become comfortable and confident around the water so that they can enjoy a lifetime of swimming and aquatic activities.
Brianna P.
San Diego, California 92119
Certification N/A
Hi everyone, my name is Brianna Privett. I have instructed and coached kids and people of all ages, from 6 months old to 45 years old, so I have a wide variety of experiences.
Johannah M.
San Diego, CA 92019
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hi, my name is Johannah Meyer and I've been teaching swim lessons for two year, ages from 1 to 12 and a swim coach for 3 years. I went to Granite Hills High School and currently attend Texas A&M majoring in engineering. I love teaching swimming because I swam competitively for 12 years and I love the sport and want to share the fun with little children!
Jennifer C.
La Mesa, CA 91942
Sunsational Certified Since 2025
My name is Jennifer. I've been teaching swim lessons for 4 years, infant-12yo, mostly 2-5. I've been working with children for 18 yrs: babysitter, camp counselor, sailing instructor, swim instructor, & middle school teacher. I got my BA in Liberal Arts & minor in Child Development from Chico State & teaching credential from San Marcos. I swam in H.S., participated in Masters swim meets, & competed in 2 sprint triathlons. I love the water & believe that swimming is a skill everyone should have!
DARCY H.
La Mesa, CA 91942
Sunsational Certified Since 2023
Hi, I am Coach Darcy, with over 30 yrs of experience teaching. * I teach through play, with safety being forefront in every lesson. * I work with all types of learning styles, including children on the spectrum, developmentally delayed individuals, and children who really dislike getting out of the water after a lesson! * Ages 6 months-adult. * Every lesson includes helping swimmers become confident, understand their abilities & limitations, have fun, and stay safe in the water.
Katie H.
San Diego, CA 91941
Sunsational Certified Since 2019
My name is Katie Hammond. I am currently a student at Gonzaga University earning a business degree. I have experience as both a competitive swimmer and diver. I love teaching swim lessons and have been doing so for three years while also lifeguarding for four years. I have experience teaching both children and adults of all ages, specifically ages 1-5 yrs old and 10-13 yrs old. I am great when working with beginners, refining stroke technique for swim team and teaching water safety.
Georgianna R.
El cajon, CA 92021
Sunsational Certified Since 2025
Hi my name is Georgi and I`ve been teaching swim lessons for 5 years with ages of 3-12 years old. I`ve been working with children for 8 years, babysitting or coaching water polo. I went to Grossmont College and got my associates and will be attending SDSU in the fall to get my bachelors degree in social work. I have been competitively swimming and playing water polo for 10 years. I think the most rewarding part of this process is watching the children`s confidence grow throughout the lessons.
Awse M.
La Mesa, California 91942
Certification N/A
Swimming has been at the center of my life since I was four. It shaped my childhood in Jordan and gave me the opportunity to move to the U.S. at 15 alone to pursue my Olympic and academic goals. I went on to represent Jordan at the World Championships, Asian Games, and regional meets, and later competed as a Division I athletetraining with world-class swimmers and holding Jordanian national and collegiate records. Whats always stayed with me is the impact great coaches had on me. Now, Im focused on passing that forwardhelping kids and adults build confidence in the water and supporting competitive swimmers who want to take their training to the next level.
Hortencia S.
La Mesa, California 91942
Certification N/A
Hello, my name is Hortencia. I specialize in water safety, breath control, and progressive skill-building to build confidence and technique. I have been teaching swim lessons since November 2019, to ages between 4 and 10 years old, and I believe that learning to swim should be a positive and enjoyable experience. I create a fun and supportive environment where students can build confidence and develop their skills at their own pace.
Mallory D.
El Cajon, CA 92019
Sunsational Certified Since 2021
Hi, my name is Mallory and I have been teaching swim lessons for the past two years with ages 2 all the way up to 7. I've also been a nanny for four years for infants, toddlers, and children. I also have experience with autistic children. I have taken a couple child development classes, and am very passionate about the growth of children. I love teaching swimming because it is so rewarding to see little kids master down swimming and learn a life survival skill, and also to enjoy swimming!
Jennifer S.
La Mesa, CA 92942
Sunsational Certified Since 2018
Hi, my name is Jenny and I have been teaching swim lessons for 8 years with students ages 6months-adult. I was a competitive swimmer throughout high school and a lifeguard for 6 years. I am from the Bay Area, but moved to attend San Diego State where I received my Bachelor's in 2015 and Teaching Credential in 2017. I currently work as an elementary school teacher, so I love teaching swim lessons since it encompasses both my passions! I love to swim and can't wait to help others love it as well!
Jenna R.
San Diego, CA 92120
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hi, my name is Jenna. I've been lifeguarding & teaching swim lessons for 2.5 years with children ranging from ages 19 months-adults! I've also worked with children for a few years as a tutor & role model in sports, as I do have a background in competitive swimming. I do not have much experience with special needs children, but I have experienced fearful beginners. My favorite part about teaching swim lessons is seeing a child's progress! I am currently a student at San Diego State.
Addilee S.
San Diego, California 92120
Certification N/A
Hello! My name is Addie. I have been swimming for over 10 years and have been teaching lessons since February 2024.
Kyle C.
San Diego, CA 92115
Sunsational Certified Since 2019
Hi, My name is Kyle and I am currently a third-year student at San Diego State studying Hospitality and Tourism Management. I have been competitively swimming for the past 10 years as well as I have been teaching swim lessons for the past 5 years I have also been a lifeguard for the past 5 summers as well. I have worked with students from ages 2-adult and skill levels from the basics of swimming to improving stroke technique. I am excited to get in the water!
Alexandra M.
San Diego, CA 92115
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hi!! My name is Alexandra & I've been instructing both swim & waterpolo, working with kids ages 5-13. I've also babysat my neighbors throughout my middle school & high school years. I'm currently a junior at San Diego State University & I love teaching swim lessons because I played waterpolo & did swim team for 6 years & it really changed my life. If I can pass down my love for swimming to future generations, that would be the absolute best!
Alexandra M.
San Diego, CA 92115
Sunsational Certified Since 2017
Hi, my name is Alex and I've been teaching swim lessons for a total of 6 years from ages 3 to 18. I've also worked with children for as a swim coach and California State Parks Lifeguard. I am currently attending SDSU earning my degree in Kinesiology, in which I will be finishing up within the next year. I have been involved in competitive swimming and water polo since the age of 6 and there is nothing that brings me more happiness to me then to see others love the sports that I do.
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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 Santee, our instructors teach year-round, so you can start lessons whenever youâre ready.
YesâSunsationalâs instructors in Santee 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 Santee 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 Santee 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 Santee 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 Santee, 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 Santee 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 Santee, 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.