kid in private swimming lesson

Swimming lessons for kids ages 5 and over Available in select locations across Metro Vancouver, BC and Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Swim lessons for kids ages 5 and over, where little ones are guided through each step as they build confidence and grow their skills.

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40+ YEARS

helping little ones feel confident in the pool

HIGHLY TRAINED INSTRUCTORS

in the water supporting little swimmers

STRUCTURED SWIM LEVELS

building skills naturally, one step at a time

Our school-age swim lessons

As kids get a bit older, swim lessons become a chance to try things on their own while still feeling supported. 


With small groups and lots of encouragement, Pedalheads swim lessons for kids ages 5 and older help little ones feel comfortable, try something new, and take the next step forward at their own pace.


Who these kids swimming classes are for

These classes are a great fit for school-age kids who are ready to learn and explore in the water with guidance close by.

They’re especially helpful if you’re looking for:

  • Beginner swim lessons for kids who are new or a little unsure

  • Swim lessons for 5-year-olds who are just getting started

  • Swim lessons for 6-year-olds who are building their confidence

  • Swim lessons for 7-year-olds ready to take on new skills

If your child would feel more comfortable with extra support, we can also offer one-on-one swim lessons for kids to help them get started at their own pace.


What our swim lessons teach

Our kids swim lessons introduce simple, age-appropriate skills that help your kid feel more comfortable and capable in the water.

Over time, they’ll be guided through:

  1. Starting with the basics, like jumping into the water, putting their face in, and learning how to hold their breath

  2. Getting more comfortable in deeper water, learning to tread water and swim short distances on their front and back

  3. Building stronger movement through the water, with more coordinated kicking and early front and back crawl

  4. Gaining more control, including swimming underwater and trying new movements like breaststroke

  5. Swimming longer distances, starting interval training and feeling more confident in deeper water with each session

  6. Developing lifesaving kicks and continuing to build stronger strokes, better endurance, and the confidence to handle deeper water more independently

Swim lessons

Our school-age swim lessons are made up of six levels that build on each other step-by-step. 

Your kid will be guided through each stage, one proud “I DID IT!” moment at a time, with skills introduced in a way that feels clear, manageable, and encouraging.

Our swimming levels

WHY CHOOSE US

Pedalheads has been helping families build confident swimmers since 1986, with small class sizes, caring instructors, and a clear path that helps kids grow one step at a time.

Trusted by families icon

Trusted by families

With 40+ years of experience and over 700,000 kids taught since 1986.

Highly-trained instructors icon

Highly-trained instructors

Certified instructors are in the water with little swimmers, guiding them at every step.

Advanced curriculum icon

Advanced swim curriculum

Our structured progression helps kids build their skills in a natural and fun way.

Designed for early learners icon

Built for growing confidence

Each level is designed to help your kid feel proud, capable, and excited to keep going.

About us

Google
Reviews 4.8

Based on over 2000 submissions

Our son had an amazing time at camp and learned so much - he is so proud of his new biking skills! We are so grateful for the extra attention.

— Happy Swim Parent, BC

Pedalheads helped my reluctant swimmer make excellent, rapid progress and learn to love swimming and feel confident in the water. So happy with this program!

— Happy Swim Parent, BC

Meet the Pedalheads Swim Instructors

Britt, Swim Instructor

"I chose to become a Pedalheads swim instructor because of how rewarding it is! Bonus: the pools are custom designed to make learning fun and engaging for kids - it's how they learn best!"

Britt, Swim Instructor

Meet the Pedalheads Swim Instructors

Olivia, Swim Instructor

"The environment at the pools is electric! I love helping new or tentative swimmers into the pool, and fine-tuning skills for our more experienced swimmers."

Olivia, Swim Instructor

Meet the Pedalheads Swim Instructors

Dean, Swim Instructor

"I motivate my students by figuring out their interests and sense of humour. Building connections and trust is an important part of teaching."

Dean, Swim Instructor

TAKE A PEEK AT OUR POOLS

Port Coquitlam - Fremont Village
West Vancouver - Park Royal
Burnaby - Fitness 2000
Burnaby - Greentree Village
Richmond - River Club
Vancouver - Jericho Hill Centre
Vancouver - Stan Stronge
Toronto - The Bishop Strachan School
Toronto - Havergal College

FAQs

What age can school-age kids start swimming lessons?

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Most kids start around age 4 or 5, when they’re ready to learn independently with an instructor guiding them in the water. Lessons are structured so your little one can begin at a level that matches their comfort.

Do kids need previous swim experience to start?

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No prior swimming experience is needed! Your kid can start at a level that matches how they feel in the water, with the guidance and support of certified instructors from the very first lesson.

How do I know which level is right for my kid?

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You can choose a level that feels like a comfortable starting point. Our instructors will assess their skills during their first class and ensure they’re in the right level to meet them where they’re at.<h3>What if my child feels nervous in the water?

It’s completely normal for kids to feel a little nervous, and swimming lessons can help them overcome their fears. Instructors take things one step at a time, using simple routines and encouragement to help your little one feel more comfortable at their own pace.


Do you offer weekly lessons and swim camps for ages 5+?

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Yes, you’ll find both weekly lessons and swim camps for ages 5+ are available. Each option follows the same step-by-step approach, so your child can keep building skills in a way that feels consistent and familiar.

What should my kid bring to swimming lessons?

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Your little one should come ready with a swimsuit, towel, and any required swim gear for the pool. Bringing goggles can help some kids feel more comfortable as they practice putting their face in the water.

Ready to get started?

Find a class near you and sign up today!

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