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Special Needs Swim Lessons in Thornton

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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200k+

swimmers

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Sunsational Swim instructors

Mobile swim lessons

Private special needs swim lessons in Thornton, CA!

When raising a child with special needs, learning to swim can feel like another hurdle – but it’s one that can be overcome. At Sunsational Swim School, we’re proud to offer special needs swim lessons near you in Thornton. 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 Thornton 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 Thornton, CA

We believe our students deserve the best, so we work with only the best swim instructors in Thornton. 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: Shelomi V.

Shelomi V.

Elk Grove, California 95757

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Angel R.

Angel R.

Stockton, CA 95219

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Stephanie G.

Stephanie G.

Sacramento, CA 95828

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Karina M.

Karina M.

Sacramento, California 95823-5363

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Derrick D.

Derrick D.

Stockton, California 95212

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Destiny S.

Destiny S.

Sacramento, California 95817

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Dolores G.

Dolores G.

Sacramento, California 95826

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Hailey R.

Hailey R.

Oakley, California 94561

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Donovan H.

Donovan H.

Sacramento, California 95826

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Lauren C.

Lauren C.

West Sacramento, California 95691

Swim Instructor Profile Image: Joshua D.

Joshua D.

Rancho Cordova, California 95670

Swim Instructor Profile Image: David C.

David C.

Sacramento, California 95819

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 Thornton

At Sunsational Swim School, we believe special needs swim lessons are essential, and we make them convenient for families in Thornton. 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 Hannah M. profile Card Image

Hannah M.

Lodi, CA 95242

Sunsational Certified Since 2024

Hi! My name is Hannah and I`ve been teaching swim lessons for about 8 years ranging a variety of different ages. I`ve also worked as a tutor and dietician. I am currently attending Delta Junior College in Stockton. I grew up swimming competitively so teaching younger kids how to swim has always been a passion.

Instructor Shelomi V. profile Card Image

Shelomi V.

Elk Grove, California 95757

Certification N/A

Hi, Im Shelomi! Im a passionate swim instructor with nearly 3 years of experience helping swimmers of all ages build confidence and feel comfortable in the water. With a background in competitive swimming for over 5 years, I bring both skill and empathy to every lesson. I also have experience working with individuals with special needs.

Instructor Vladimir J. profile Card Image

Vladimir J.

Elk Grove, CA 95757

Sunsational Certified Since 2017

My name is Vladimir and I have been swimming nearly all my life and teaching others what I know only felt natural! I love working with people and think that swimming is a skill essential to know! I love teaching swimming because for me it was always a good escape from stress in school or work and I feel as though it could have the same benefits for others! I hope I have opportunity and pleasure of one day teaching you all that I know!

Instructor Anastasia K. profile Card Image

Anastasia K.

Elk Grove, CA 95757

Sunsational Certified Since 2017

Hello my name is Anastasia Krajnovic and I have been teaching swim lessons for 3+ years with students ranging from infancy to adulthood. I also have experience working with children during my time in Theater and hosting Sunday school! I am currently a Sophomore in college and have swam competitively for 9+ years. I understand the value of pool safety and will do my best to teach my students the swim skills necessary for a fun-loving Summer!

Instructor Amr E. profile Card Image

Amr E.

Elk Grove, CA 95758

Sunsational Certified Since 2021

Hi! My name is Amr and I've been teaching swim lessons from ages 2 to 32. I'm a pre-dental student attending my undergrad at UC Davis. I love teaching swim lessons! Let's get you or your little one swimming!

Instructor Marla M. profile Card Image

Marla M.

Elk Grove, CA 95624

Sunsational Certified Since 2017

Hi, my name is Marla and I've been teaching lessons and coaching swimming for over 20 years. I have taught swimmers through all stages of skill acquisition; from mother tot to beginners (including adult beginners) through to national class competitive swimmers. I enjoy helping others overcome fear and trepidation, to learn safety, comfort, proficiency and enjoyment in the water. I have a BS in Art and an MA in Counseling.

Instructor Angel R. profile Card Image

Angel R.

Stockton, CA 95219

Sunsational Certified Since 2023

Hi there! Im Angel, a passionate swim instructor with experience both in and out of the water. During the school year, I work at an elementary school where I love helping kids learn and grow. When summer rolls around, I dive into teaching swim lessons, sharing my love for the water with swimmers of all ages and skill levels, including adults! In college, I coached a competitive swim team for advanced swimmers, helping athletes refine their technique and reach their goals. Ive also worked at a swim school teaching novice swimmers the basics and building their confidence in the water. Whether youre just starting out or looking to take your swimming to the next level, Im here to help you make a splash and achieve your goals! Lets dive in together!

Instructor Stephanie G. profile Card Image

Stephanie G.

Sacramento, CA 95828

Sunsational Certified Since 2023

Hi! My name is Stephanie and I have been a swim instructor since February 2022 and a swim coach since February 2024, but my swimming experience ranges back 12 years and 5 years competitively, including water polo. I have taught ages from 2 months to older adults. I have worked with kids for 4 years as a babysitter. I then switched to swim instructing because I love to teach people. I also currently am a student at California State University - Sacramento, studying Criminal Justice and Forensic Chemistry.

Instructor Karina M. profile Card Image

Karina M.

Sacramento, California 95823-5363

Sunsational Certified Since 2024

Hello! My name is Karina and Im a college student at Sacramento city college Im getting my pre-health associates and starting with my early childhood education bachelor's degree. I was in my high school swimming team for 2 years, then began working as a swim instructor for the past 3 years, I have experience with ages 4 months to senior adults. hope I can teach children to love the water as much as I do!

Instructor Grace X. profile Card Image

Grace X.

Sacramento, CA 95828

Sunsational Certified Since 2019

Hi, my name is Grace Xu and I`be been teaching swim lessons for 3 years during the summer season with ages 4 to 14. I am attending Consumes River College as a first year student and majoring in Physiology. I`ve been swimming competitively for 5 years and currently I am a part of my college swim team. I love teaching swimming because I want to share the importance of the water skills and the four strokes that everyone should obtain to provide self-protection in case of danger.

Instructor Derrick D. profile Card Image

Derrick D.

Stockton, California 95212

Certification N/A

Hey party people, my name is Derrick, and Im currently in school to be a veterinarian. I love my dogs, thrifting, and traveling! I have been a swim instructor since February 2020, working with able-bodied and special needs individuals alike (physically and mentally) from ages ranging from 3 months to 70 plus years old!

Instructor Destiny S. profile Card Image

Destiny S.

Sacramento, California 95817

Certification N/A

Hi, my name is Destiny Savage! I have been teaching swimming lessons since January 2013 and have over 20 years of swimming experience. I work with all ages, from 6 months to 100+. I specialize in creating a safe and inclusive space for all swimmers, including those on the autism spectrum. I communicate in English and ASL and am passionate about helping others build confidence and skills in the water. Whether youre just starting out or looking to improve your technique, I tailor each lesson to fit your unique needs and goals. My mission is to make swimming a fun, empowering, and lifelong skill for everyone. Lets make a splash and have some fun in the water together!

Instructor Dolores G. profile Card Image

Dolores G.

Sacramento, California 95826

Certification N/A

Hi, My name is Dolores. I am a mother to 8 children and do a little bit of everything while my kiddos are in school. I swam competitively from 4th grade to high school. I was the designated swim instructor for my moms daycare growing up, for my nieces and nephews and through out the years I have taught various ages and levels to swim and to get better at their strokes for competition. I love working with all ages especially little ones. I look forward to making swimming fun and easy!

Instructor Hailey R. profile Card Image

Hailey R.

Oakley, California 94561

Certification N/A

I am excited to bring over seven years of swim experience, working with students ranging from infants as young as six months to adults. Throughout my career, I have specialized in teaching water safety fundamentals while helping swimmers refine their technique and gain confidence in the water. My approach emphasizes structured, engaging lessons tailored to each individuals needs, ensuring both safety and skill development. I am eager to apply my expertise and passion for swimming to create a positive and supportive learning environment for all participants.

Instructor Christian H. profile Card Image

Christian H.

Sacramento, CA 95822

Sunsational Certified Since 2017

Hello! My name is Christian "Sam" Hochhalter and I have taught swimming lessons for three years with ages four to thirteen. I have also worked with children as a volunteer triathlon coach teaching basic to advanced techniques in swimming, biking, and running. I got my degree in economics from Montana State University in 2018. During that time I was a competitive triathlete over the sprint and olympic distance and competed in the USAT Age Group Nationals race in 2016.

Instructor Donovan H. profile Card Image

Donovan H.

Sacramento, California 95826

Certification N/A

Hey! Im Donovan. Heres some information about myself: - I was a lifeguard for 2 years (CPR certified). - I was previously a private swim instructor since August 2024. - The age range I worked with the most was ages 8-12 (Infants occasionally). - I was a camp counselor at Camp Ronald McDonald (taught a fellow counselor how to swim). - I have experience instructing children with autism. - I have a flexible schedule.

Instructor Robert R. profile Card Image

Robert R.

Sacramento, CA 95820

Sunsational Certified Since 2025

Howdy, My name is Rob and i have taught swim lessons for about 2 years with ages from 4- 40. I was on my swim team all four years of high school. I was also a lifeguard for two years and i currently coach my 6 year old in baseball! I love teaching swimming because there is nothing better than the pool!

Instructor Sara K. profile Card Image

Sara K.

Sacramento, CA 95825

Sunsational Certified Since 2017

Hi! My name is Sara Krajnovic and I've been teaching swim lessons for 3 years now with infants to adults. I've worked with special needs kids both in and outside of the pool, mostly as a para-educator for the Elk Grove Unified School District, but also as a swim instructor! I am currently attending UC Davis with a major in Biochemistry and have swam competitively for 7 years, both in high school and in college! I love swimming and I hope that my students will as well!

Instructor Rachel P. profile Card Image

Rachel P.

Oakley, CA 94561

Sunsational Certified Since 2017

Hi, I'm Rachel and I've been teaching swim lessons for many years. My mom taught lessons since I was 2! I have worked with children for over 15 years as a nanny, aunt, and then a mom. I was on the swim team for 3 years. I went to High Tech Institute and earned a certificate in Registered Dental Assisting in 2006. I worked in the dental field for 10 years. I love teaching swimming because it is a fun way to exercise and I love the water! I believe that every person should know how to swim.

Instructor Zoey B. profile Card Image

Zoey B.

Sacramento, California 95826

Certification N/A

Hi, my name is Zoey and I have been teaching swim lessons for students ages 2 through adults, and have three years of lifeguarding experience. I have competed on the swim team for all four years. Im on track to graduate with an AA in Psychology from ARC along with my diploma this year. I deeply enjoy teaching swim lessons as swimming is a true passion of mine. I have experience with a wide variety of ages!

Instructor carmen c. profile Card Image

carmen c.

West Sacramento, California 95691

Certification N/A

Hello! Im Carmen and Ive done almost every type of swim you may be interested in. I started young with swim lessons, improving my technique and strokes, went on to swim for a summer league team for years, then swam for a highly ranked team in our high school league. Past that, Ive worked as the sole swim instructor at a gym back near my hometown, I curated the curriculum and led the program. Due to COVID, the gym closed, however, once it was safe I continued with some of my clients and did private lessons with them. Depending on your goals, Im confident Ill be able to curate a curriculum to help you improve quickly, but with proper technique. Im huge on technique and swimming properly, otherwise you wont get the most out of it.

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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 Thornton, 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 Thornton, 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 Thornton 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 Sacramento. 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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