Enroll in Swimming Lessons Today
Start your Bear Paddle story with a free swim lesson and skills assessment.
Our results-focused story-based approach to teaching lessons builds confident and skilled swimmers, so parents can rest assured that their child is having fun and making real progress while learning to swim.
Story-Based Approach
We use an engaging and immersive story-based approach in every lesson that makes a fun and memorable learning experience. Each month features a new theme, so your child never gets bored.
Progress Tracking
We want to ensure your child is making progress and keep you involved.Every month each child gets an in-water skill evaluation followed by a progress report.
Flexible Scheduling
Our monthly schedule means you sign up for lessons when it’s convenient for you – no long-term contracts, and no quarterly commitments. All lessons include free make-up lessons!
New All in 9 Program
Our newest program for children ages 4 and up guarantees three major swim milestones in just nine months. Through your consistent attendance and our commitment to progress tracking, your child will be able to self-rescue, float independently on their back, and swim at least 25 feet. All swim programs can tell you how much a lesson costs, but only we can tell you how long it will take to become a proficient swimmer.
No matter your experience, age, or comfort level, there’s a swim level for you
Whether you’re looking to increase your child’s comfort levels in the water, ensure their safety around water, or take their swim skills to the next level, Bear Paddle offers swim levels for kids of all ages and abilities.
Grow your love of swimming with a program that’s right for you
To best grow and retain your swim knowledge, weekly swim lessons ensure you’ll move up to the next level in no time.
Develop their love of swimming right away
Through catchy songs and stories, infants and parents together learn the very basics of swim safety and techniques.
We develop lifelong swimmers across the country
With 15 locations across Illinois, Ohio, Kentucky, New Jersey, and Minnesota. Find a Bear Paddle location that’s convenient for you.
Bear Paddle Swim School Blog
Do Babies Naturally Know How to Swim?
Summer is fast approaching. Families eagerly plan vacations and activities that revolve around sunshine, laughter, and, most often, water adventures. From poolside playdates to beach...
Floating for Kids: A Step-by-Step Guide for Parents
Many swim lesson curriculums teach beginners the basics of swimming before moving on to more advanced skills. These fundamentals include floating! When your budding swimmer...
At What Age Can a Child Swim Independently?
Learning to swim is a fun, confidence-building experience and a crucial life skill! However, determining when your child can swim independently can be challenging. In...
How to Prepare for Your Child’s First Swim Lesson
You’ve enrolled your child in the best swim class, and the countdown to their first lesson has begun. As this exciting milestone approaches, you want...