Not Every Child Jumps Right In
Some children love the water from the start. Others need more time and a gentler approach before they feel ready to explore.
If your child clings to you, cries at the edge, or shuts down in group classes, that's not a problem to fix. It's a signal that they need something different.
First Waves Swim was created for exactly these children. In a private, one-on-one setting, there's no pressure to keep up, no noise, no rushing. Just your child, the water, and an instructor who meets them exactly where they are.
We focus on building trust first. As your child becomes more comfortable, confidence grows and skills begin to develop naturally.Â
Is This a Good Fit for Your Child?Â
These lessons are designed for children who:
- Feel hesitant or anxious in the water
- Hold on tightly or resist getting in
- Become upset once they are in the pool
- Struggle in group classes
- Benefit from one-on-one attention
If your goal is to help your child feel at ease in the water and build real confidence at their own pace, these lessons are built around that.
What We Focus On
Each lesson is tailored to your child and how they respond in the water. We do not rush through skills. We help your child feel settled first, so they can begin to explore with confidence.
We build a strong foundation through:
âś” Feeling safe and supported in the water
âś” Building comfort and confidence at your child's own pace
âś” Using play and age appropriate activities to encourage engagement
âś” Introducing breath control and submersion gently
âś” Developing floating, kicking, and early movement skills
âś” Introducing stroke technique when your child is ready
 As your child becomes more at ease and willing to engage, new skills are introduced gradually, allowing progress to build naturally without pressure.
Why Parents Choose First Waves Swim
Your Child Comes First
No checklists, no pressure to keep up. Every lesson moves at your child's pace. We don't introduce anything new until your child feels ready and comfortable.
Safety Is Always the Priority
Our instructor is a certified Water Safety Instructor, trained in CPR, First Aid, and AED. You can relax knowing your child is in experienced, qualified hands.
 Lessons Come to You
No commute, no rushing, no disruption to your day. We bring the lesson to your building pool, making it easy for busy families to stay consistent.
Meet Your Instructor
Hi, I’m Olga, founder of First Waves Swim.
Swimming has been part of my life for close to 30 years, from competitive swimming to Ironman triathlons to earning my Water Safety Instructor certification. I'm also a mom to a toddler, so I understand the patience, reassurance, and flexibility young children often need to feel comfortable in the water.
I believe every child deserves a positive first experience in the pool. While some children are eager to jump right in, others need more time to build trust and comfort. That's why every lesson is tailored to your child's personality, comfort level, and pace. I never rush the process or move on to new skills until your child feels ready.
There's nothing more rewarding than watching a child who was once hesitant begin to smile, explore, and gain confidence in the water. Those moments are why I love what I do.
I'd love to help your child take those first confident steps in the water.
WSI Certified
Water Safety Instructor
CPR & First Aid
Certified
AED Certified
Emergency ready
How Lessons WorkÂ
Lessons are private, with the instructor in the water with your child. This allows for close attention, continuous support, and adjustments based on how your child is feeling throughout the session.
- 30-minute sessions for toddlers and younger children, with 45-minute sessions available for older children
- Parents can watch or join, depending on what works best for your child
- Lessons are available for families with access to a residential pool on the Upper West Side
- If your building does not have a pool, feel free to reach out and we can explore options together
- Weekly consistency is recommended for the best results
Every child responds to the water differently. Some may feel comfortable right away, while others need a few sessions to warm up. It’s completely normal for children to take time to adjust, and lessons are always adapted to your child’s pace.Â
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Pricing
Summer 2026 Promo (Limited Spots)
Introductory Lesson
$120 $99 (one-time, for new clients)
Single Lesson
$140 $120 per session
5-Lesson Package
$625 $525 ($105 per session)
10-Lesson Package
$1,200 $990 ($99 per session)
Semi-private lessons for siblings or friends are available upon request.
Promo pricing available for lessons booked by August 31, 2026.
Questions Parents Often Ask
What age do you teach?
What if my child cries or doesn’t want to participate?
Does my child need any prior swim experience?
How long does it take for a child to get comfortable in the water?
Do parents stay during the lesson?
Where do lessons take place?
Ready to Get Started?
Your child doesn't have to love the water right away. They just need the right start. Fill out the short form below, and I'll reach out within 24 hours.Â