9 Bay Area Swim Lesson Picks From Parents

Gina I.:  Whether your child is just learning to swim, is refining their technique, or needs some competitive training, American Swim Academy has the perfect program. They also offer learn-to-swim programs designed specifically for older children and young adults, and all classes have a strong focus on water safety.

Ages: 4 months and up

Cost: Rates start at $14/class

Gina I.:  According to SafeSplash Swim School, swimming is a life skill, and their expertly designed curriculum is a reflection of that vision. In fact, their programs were designed by world class swimmers, including Olympic Gold Medalist Missy Franklin. Small classes sizes mean kids get individual attention and there are no long term commitments. They also offer swim camps and a variety of additional programs.

Ages: 6 months and up

Cost: Pricing varies by location

Gina I.:  Family owned and operated AquaTech Swim is dedicated to creating an exceptional experience for the whole family. Their state-of-the-art, indoor facilities feature large parent viewing areas, children's play zones, concessions, and more. Choose from a variety of children's programs including: private lessons, unlimited swim lessons, classes for 'nervous beginners', competitive training, and more.

Ages: 6 months and up

Cost: Ongoing classes start at $90/month

Gina I.:  Working from the Red Cross Water Safety curriculum, Patti's Swim School has taught more than 40,000 students since they first opened in 1981. Little swimmers will move through 7 levels of training, in a private or semi-private setting, with a curriculum that is focused on water safety and fun. The heated, saline pool is open May through October and covered during the winter months to create a comfortable indoor environment. Parents are welcome to stay observe, and Patti's also specializes in working with individuals who have special needs.

Ages: Infants and up

Cost: Contact for pricing

Gina I.:  With extensively trained teachers, expertly maintained pools, multiple class levels, and complimentary family swim, it's easy to see why so many parents choose La Petite Baleen Swim Schools. Group, semi-private and private classes are available, and they also offer competitive swim instruction, in addition to learn-to-swim courses and Splash & Dash drop-in lessons.

Ages: 2 months and up

Cost: Group lessons start at $115/month

Gina I.:  When it comes to finding the perfect spot for your child's swim lessons, be sure to check out King's Swim Academy! Parents love the low student/teacher ratios, free trial class, and satisfaction guarantee; while kids will love the personalized instruction available in a variety of class levels. They also offer a swim team for older kids interested in competitive programs.

Ages: 5 months and up

Cost: Starts at $24.75/lesson

Gina I.:  With over 50 years of experience, Peninsula Swim School has a history of success working with even the most apprehensive little swimmers. You won't find fins or floats in this indoor/outdoor pool. Their focused instruction aims to build strong swimmers of all ages, who are confident in the water without swim-aids.

Ages: Infants and up

Cost: Lessons start at $190/9-week session

Gina I.:  With a flexible schedule for private and group classes, Shipman Swim School offers lessons year-round. Little ones focus on getting acclimated to the water while older kids can work on refining their stroke and technique. Water safety is incorporated into all levels, and low teacher/student ratios mean your kids will get the personalized instruction they need to master their swimming skills.

Ages: 18 months and up

Cost: Pricing for a single lesson starts at $25

Gina I.:  Kids that need a little more personal attention and focused instruction will benefit from Aqua Sports Swim Academy's private (1:1) and semi-private lessons (2:1). Classes are held in their indoor, heated pool, and are tailored to each child's ability and learning style. Regardless of age, all levels focus on water safety, survival skills, and confidence.

Ages: 18 months and up

Cost: Lessons start at $280/8-week session