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Portrait of Carissa from Swim With Carissa

Hello, I'm Carissa...

Private Concierge Swim Instructor

For over 18 years, I’ve helped children build safety, confidence, and joyful independence in the water — through a gentle, play-based method that never uses fear, force, or pressure. My approach is rooted in emotional safety first, because a child who feels secure learns faster, remembers more, and grows with genuine confidence.

I specialize in working with babies, beginners, hesitant swimmers, and children who learn best through kindness, repetition, and trust. Many of my swimmers come to me after experiencing fear-based programs or high-pressure teaching styles. I help them rebuild confidence, reconnect with the water, and learn at a pace that feels safe and natural.

My Teaching
Philosophy

I believe that water safety should be taught through:

  • Gentle introduction

  • Trust before technique

  • Play before pressure

  • Consistency over intensity

  • Calm, predictable routines

Learning should feel joyful — not stressful. A child who feels safe learns faster and retains more, and becomes truly water-safe over time.

This approach is the foundation of every lesson I teach.

Your child is never rushed. Never pushed. Never overwhelmed.

Why I Teach
This Way

I've seen firsthand what happens when children are taught...

 with harsh methods, forceful submersions, or “sink-or-swim” tactics. It creates panic, resistance, and trauma that often lasts years.

That’s why I built a method that does the opposite:
A warm, encouraging environment where your child feels supported every step — and where progress unfolds naturally and confidently.

My ultimate goal is simple:
For your child to feel safe, capable, and joyful in the water… and for you, as a parent, to have peace of mind.

A Conceirge
Experience

As your private instructor, I come directly to your home pool to provide:

  • One-on-one tailored instruction

  • A calm, distraction-free learning space

  • Personalized lesson planning

  • Consistent progress tracking

  • A predictable weekly routine

  • Communication and guidance for parents

 

Every detail is designed to make the experience seamless for your family — and deeply supportive for your child.

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Your Child’s Journey Begins
With an Assessment

Before beginning lessons, each child starts with a 20-minute concierge assessment. This allows me to understand their comfort level, abilities, and learning style so I can create a personalized plan for their progress.

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