Looking for swim lessons in DFW? Whether you're starting with a parent-and-child class, building water confidence, the city has a wide range of programs for every age and skill level. From local rec centers to specialized swim schools, here’s a roundup of some of the best options to help your kids stay safe and strong in the water this summer.
Updated June 2025
Aaron Family JCC Aquatics
The Lenny Krayzelburg Swim Academy, part of the JCC’s aquatics program, offers a structured, results-driven approach using the SwimRight Method. With an emphasis on water safety and stroke technique, it provides a supportive environment for kids of all ages and skill levels, which is open to both members and non-members. They also offer a free 20-minute evaluation to help determine your child’s comfort in the water and recommend the best fit between group or private lessons. The academy offers classes seven days a week, with programs tailored for kids under 4 years old as well as those aged 4 and up.
North Dallas | Directions
Photo courtesy of Aqua Tots Swim School
Aqua-Tots Swim School
With multiple locations across DFW, Aqua-Tots Swim Schools offer 30-minute, year-round swim lessons for kids ages 4 months to 12 years, following a structured eight-level Swim Journey that focuses on water safety and stroke development. Classes are kept small with a 4:1 student-to-instructor ratio, and families can choose from group, semi-private, or private options. Lessons are available Monday through Saturday, including evenings, and for kids who love the water, there are also swim clubs and team opportunities to continue growing their skills!
Multiple locations | See locations
Cooper Fitness Center
Cooper Fitness offers year-round swim lessons for children of all ages, starting as young as 6 months through the teen years. Lessons are open to both members and non-members and have a variety of programs to choose from, like private and semi-private lessons, triathlon swim training, and swim team preparation. From June through August, they host a 30-minute Swim Academy on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays for kids ages 3–6, held in a small group setting.
North Dallas | Directions
Photo & header courtesy of Dallas Aquatics
Dallas Aquatics
Dallas Aquatics is known for a comprehensive range of swim lessons through the Red Cross Learn to Swim program, making it easy for families to find the right fit. From the Parent-Child Aquatics program for ages 6 months to 2 years, to the Preschool Aquatics program for ages 3 to 5, there’s something for every stage. With multiple skill levels available and locations across the Dallas metroplex, finding the right fit for swim lessons is just a splash away!
Multiple locations | See locations
Dallas Swim Kids
Dallas Swim Kids has a fun, tiered swim program for ages 6 months and up, whether your child is new to the water or ready for advanced strokes and endurance. With lessons seven days a week and levels from Parent-Child through Level 6, there's something for every swimmer. If your kids are ready for more, the Club Team provides a great intro to pre-competitive swimming, all in a family-friendly, modern facility we know parents love.
Lakewood | Directions
Photo courtesy of Emler Swim School
Emler Swim School
From babies just 2 months old to competitive pre-teens, Emler Swim School has a fully developed swim program for all stages. With clear progression levels, small class ratios, and flexible group/private options, it's ideal for families seeking structured, milestone-driven swim education. Pricing and schedules vary by location, but don’t miss the popular summer swim clinics, running May through August, for a fast-tracked learning experience.
Multiple locations | See locations
ISR WaterKids
Waterkids ISR specializes in private, one-on-one swim lessons for children ages 6 months to 6 years old, teaching ISR Self-Rescue techniques like rolling to the back, floating, and the swim-float-swim sequence. For kids age 5 and up, the program also includes traditional Red Cross stroke development, which is encouraged to continue to develop your child's skills further. To check availability and pricing, be sure to contact Ilise Kohleriter, the certified ISR instructor and owner of WaterKids.
North Dallas | Directions
UT Dallas Aquatics
UT Dallas Aquatics provides structured, level-based swim lessons for kids aged 4–12 through small-group classes after school. For younger children or personalized pace, private 30-minute lessons start at just 6 months old. Group lessons run from $80 to 95 per session; private packs range from $110 to $130, depending on length and membership status. All sessions take place at the on-campus Gregory Gym pool with certified water safety instructors.
Richardson | Directions
Safe Splash Swim School
SafeSplash Swim School have many locations around the metroplex that offers year-round swim lessons for kids starting at 4 months old, with programs ranging from parent-tot to stroke development and swim team prep. Lessons are available in group, semi-private, and private formats at indoor, heated pools across the city. Pricing, schedules, and summer clinic options vary by location, so check their website to find the best fit for your family this summer!
Multiple Locations | See Locations
Photo courtesy of YMCA
YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas
The YMCA is a great place to consider for structured and level-based swim lessons for children ages 6 months to 12 years, beginning with parent-child to advanced stroke development. Lessons are available in group, semi-private, and private formats (ages +3), and the Safety Around Water program teaches essential rescue skills in eight 40-minute sessions. The YMCA is a great place to learn all the swimming fundamentals, so be sure to check the location nearest you for pricing and schedules, as they vary by location.
Multiple locations | See locations