There’s something magical about teaching your little ones to swim—it’s part survival skill, part freedom, and part “mom-I’m-a-mermaid-now” moment. Whether you’ve got a backyard kiddie pool or just access to a public one, introducing your child to swimming doesn’t have to be intimidating. In fact, you can absolutely lay the foundation for water safety and confidence right at home—and Nevada County has some fantastic swim lesson options for when you’re ready to bring in the professionals.
Let’s dive in (pun fully intended).
At-Home Swimming Tips
Start Slow & Make It Fun
The key here is comfort. Play with pool toys, splash around, sing silly songs—anything to build familiarity and joy around water. A relaxed kid is a learning kid. Worldwide Swim School has great ideas for first-time water activities.
Bubble Time = Breath Control
Encourage your kiddo to blow bubbles in the water by showing them first. This builds their ability to control their breathing while getting used to putting their face near or in the water. You can check out this Children’s Discovery Center guide for simple exercises.
Back Floats & Kicking Practice
Support their head and back while they float—this helps them learn how their body reacts to the water. Follow it up with gentle leg movements. You can hold them in a “cuddle kick” position and guide them across the pool.
Pool Wall Time
Let your child grab the side of the pool and “walk” their hands along the edge like a monkey. It builds grip strength and gives them a safety habit—always knowing where the edge is.
Introduce Arm Strokes
Start outside the pool with arm circles, then help them incorporate strokes while holding their body in the water. Add in kicks and voilà—you’re halfway to your own swim team.
Reinforce Water Safety Rules
Repeat after me: “Walk near the pool. Never swim alone. And if Mom says ‘come out,’ you come out.” Lay the groundwork early for safe swimming habits. Parents.com has a great list of pool safety tips to keep handy.
Swimming Lessons in Nevada County
When it’s time to get some professional help, here are some local spots worth checking out:
Nevada City Municipal Pool
Group and private lessons start mid-June—check their Summer Guide for times and pricing. Saturday and weekday options available.
Aqua Mi
(Nevada City)
Warm water (90–92°F!) and baby-friendly. They offer swim classes for kids starting at 8 months old. Year-round scheduling available.
Pioneer Park Pool
Details can be found through local parks and rec departments. This seasonal option is popular and family-friendly—worth calling ahead to check on lessons.
Some Swim Tips
Most experts recommend starting swim lessons around age 1–4, especially with how much it reduces drowning risk.
Even babies can benefit from early water exposure—but always with you arms-length close.
Don’t be discouraged if your kiddo is scared at first.
Go at their pace and celebrate small wins.
When You Need the Best:
Infant Swimming Resource’s Self-Rescue (ISR)
This program teaches children how to survive if they were to reach the water alone. Taught by qualified instructor and mother of two, Jennifer Haugen, this program has over 800 documented survival stories of children using the skills learned in the program to save their life.
Program Details:
5-8 week course
One-on-one customized lessons
4 days per week (Monday through Thursday)
10 minutes maximum each day.
Dedicated to children aged 6 months to 6 years
Cost: $950
Location: Private Residence in Chicago Park
**Discounts for siblings and payment plans available**
For more info or to schedule lessons call: 530-913-5922
Swimming is a life skill—and a lifelong joy. Whether you’re just testing the waters in your backyard or looking to enroll your kid in formal lessons, Nevada County has options that fit every comfort level and schedule. A little splashing today could save a life tomorrow. Plus, you’re creating memories your kids will carry forever (even if they forget sunscreen and end up with a raccoon tan).
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