How do I sign up?

Just head to the “Swim With Us” page on our website! You’ll be able to see available programs, choose your preferred session, and complete your registration all in one place. Once you’re registered, we’ll send you a booking link on May 1st. Lessons run seasonally from June to October.

What are your prices?

Our 2025 prices start at $60 for 20 minutes of instruction. 1 hour spots go from $110. These spots are popular with families and can be split into multi-kid private and group lessons. We offer a range of discounts for locals, education/military/healthcare workers, and those in need.

Just contact us and we will work to make it happen for your family. We also offer review and referral discounts, refer another client and get a lesson free!

When should I book lessons?

We open summer booking in May, and returning families get early access. The sooner you book, the better your chances of getting your ideal days and times—especially in the busy summer months. Weekend mornings and toddler time slots fill up fast in July, so booking at least two weeks ahead is your best bet. Our lessons can start around Memorial Day if your family has access to a heated pool. June tends to be a rainier cloudy month. We recommend waiting until later in the month after a few sunny days, if you don’t have a pool heater.

We don’t have a pool—can we still do lessons?

Neither do we! You’ve got options! If you have a friend or neighbor with a pool, we can come to you. We’re also working on partnerships with local campgrounds and condos that allow guest access. This season we are renting pools from local families. (Message us if you’re interested in hosting.) Beach sessions are an option too, depending on conditions. Let us know what access you have, and we’ll help you figure it out.

What kind of pool do I need?

All you need is access to a clean, safe swimming pool. A shallow end where your swimmer can comfortably stand is ideal. If you have an above-ground pool and your child can safely stand or balance using the ladder or wall, that works too!

Can siblings/cousins/friends share a lesson?

Yes! Siblings, cousins, or friends with similar swim levels can absolutely share a lesson—it’s fun and motivating. If skill levels are very different, we may recommend splitting the time so each swimmer gets the attention they need. For younger swimmers, we may ask a parent to stay close by for safety.

Can we do multiple kids in one hour, even if they’re different levels?

Yes! We can split a 60-minute lesson into two 30-minute sessions tailored to each swimmer’s level or run a semi-private lesson if they’re at similar levels. We’re happy to help you decide what’s best based on age, goals, and swim experience.

How many lessons per week should I book?

We recommend booking at least five sessions to build momentum. For skill jumps, 2–3 lessons in one week helps build comfort and routine. Weekly lessons are great too—they just move a bit slower. Swim “camp” style weeks (especially during vacation) can really boost skills quickly!

What are your hours?

Swim Lessons typically run June to October on weekday mornings, afternoons, early evenings, and weekends. Specific times depend on your location and instructor availability.

What ages do you teach?

We teach swimmers of all ages—from 4-month-old babies to adults. For our littlest swimmers, we offer parent-assisted lessons to build water comfort together. If you're a little unsure in the water yourself, we also offer private adult lessons to help you gain confidence alongside your child.

What services do you offer?

We offer private and semi-private lessons, group classes for kids ages 4+, adaptive swim sessions, and parent-and-tot classes. We also provide lifeguards and pool games for parties! Whether you’re building water confidence, working on technique, or just looking to have some fun—we’ve got you covered.

Where are you located?

Shore Swim School is based in Cape May County, New Jersey. Our Instructors Cover Ocean City to Cape May. We will meet you in Avalon, Stone Harbor, Wildwood, or off Island in Cape May Court House. We’re mobile, so we bring the lesson to you. We teach at grandparents houses, hotels, condos, vacation homes, or anywhere with access to a safe, swimmable pool. Our instructors are local and our business is family owned by lifelong locals.

Can I request the same instructor each time?

We do our best to keep your instructor consistent. If a switch is needed, we’ll set up one overlap session so your child can meet the new instructor and feel comfortable with the transition.

What if the weather’s bad?

We swim through drizzle and light rain! But if there’s lightning or unsafe conditions, we’ll cancel and reschedule at no extra cost. Safety always comes first.

Can I reschedule or cancel a lesson?

We understand that life happens! We ask for at least 24 hours’ notice to reschedule. Weather-related cancellations are handled at no extra cost. Just communicate with your instructor or use the booking system to make changes when needed.

How do kids usually progress?

Every child is different! Some jump in confidently, others need a bit more time. Comfort in the bath or adventurous play is a good sign. Your energy matters too—especially with little ones. If you're calm and encouraging, they’ll feel safer and more open to learning. Celebrate every small win—they really do add up!

What are the scheduling options?

Lesson availability depends on instructor schedules and demand in your area. Once you click the booking link, you'll see real-time openings for the program you choose. We offer weekly lessons, one-on-one sessions, and some semi-private or small group options when appropriate.

Why are infant lessons 20 minutes and toddler lessons 30min?

Infant lessons are shorter—usually around 20 minutes—because babies can typically only tolerate about 15–20 minutes in the water before they get cold or tired. Their little bodies have a harder time regulating temperature, so we keep sessions short, safe, and fun! When you book an infant lesson, you’re also being matched with an instructor who’s trained to work with babies and their specific developmental stages. These sessions are all about building comfort, connection, and early water skills at your baby’s pace.

Do I need to get in the water with my child?

It depends!—and we’re here to adapt to what works best for your family. For baby and toddler lessons, a caregiver is encouraged to stay close or even join in the water during the first few sessions as your little one builds trust and comfort. For older kids, most lessons are 1:1 with the instructor, but we always welcome parents to watch nearby. Many children do best with a clear hand-off, while others feel much more secure knowing a parent is within sight. If you're only in town for a short visit, having a familiar face close by can help with that transition. You know your child best, and we’ll work together to create a supportive and positive experience.

What can I do to support my child’s progress?

Show up regularly, cheer them on, and keep it fun! A lot of water acclimation can happen in the tub. Practice back floats, blowing bubbles, getting cheeks and ears wet, in the tub or while playing outside of lessons—whether that’s splashing in the pool, playing simple water games, or even floating during bath time—every little bit of repetition helps reinforce what they’re learning. Consistency, encouragement, and positive vibes go a long way. And don’t forget to celebrate the small wins—those little moments add up to big progress over time!

How do we split the cost for a group lesson?

If you’re booking with friends or family, we can divide the cost however works best for your group. We accept cash and we’re happy to send separate payment links—just let us know when you book.

Can you do beach lessons?

Yes! We love beach lessons when conditions are safe. These sessions are more about water confidence and safety than typical swim, float, strokes lessons—think jumping waves, checking conditions, and ocean awareness. We usually recommend starting with a pool session first so we can check in on your swimmer’s comfort level.

What are adaptive swim lessons like?

Our Adaptive Swim Whisperers® sessions are specially designed for swimmers with unique needs, including ADHD, autism, sensory sensitivities, and other developmental differences. Yes! Coach Celeste has a background in special education and adapts lessons to each swimmer’s unique needs. We use gentle, sensory-aware techniques and a flexible approach.Instructors tailor each session to the individual swimmer. While our lessons are adaptive and supportive, please note that they are not considered therapeutic sessions.

Do you offer packages or discounts?

Yes! We offer multi-lesson packages, seasonal deals, and discounts for locals, teachers, military, healthcare workers, and families with financial need. We also have a referral program—refer a friend and get a lesson free!