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Blue Dolphin Swim School

Learn to Swim

Small steps. Strong foundations.

Private lessons for ages 2–7, with three progressive levels: Turtle, Octopus, and Stingray.

An instructor helping a young swimmer in the Blue Dolphin pool

Progress at their pace

A clear path forward.

Explore each level, the skills swimmers develop, and what comes next.

A young Blue Dolphin swimmer practicing with a kickboard

Turtle

Children new to swimming begin at this level. Primary skills include introduction and mastery of the prone float position, introduction to underwater pull-through (diggers), back float, and sit-diving from the side of the pool to an instructor.

  • 20 minutes 1x per week
  • Children 2 years +

Turtle Private Lesson- $55 per 20 Minute Private Lesson, Billed Monthly

Octopus

Primary skills include blended movement from extended underwater pull-through (diggers) with a roll onto back to rest, mastering breath control, beginning elementary backstroke, beginning kick on back, and jumping into the pool to swim to an instructor. 

  • 20 minutes 1x per week

Octopus Private Lesson- $55 per 20 Minute Private Lesson, Billed Monthly

  • Must pass Turtle to graduate to Octopus

Stingray

Primary skills include an introduction to proper freestyle (4 strokes and a side breath), use of a kickboard, bobbing, underwater swimming, and backstroke. 

  • 20 minutes 1x per week

Stingray Private Lesson- $55 per 20 Minute Private Lesson, Billed Monthly

  • Must pass Octopus to graduate to Stingray

Good questions. Clear answers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ages does Learn to Swim cover?

Our Learn to Swim program serves children ages 2–7. We start brand-new swimmers in Turtle, then build skills through Octopus and Stingray as they master floating, breath control, underwater movement, and stroke foundations. If you’re unsure where to begin, we can guide placement with an in-water assessment.

Are private lessons available for beginners?

Yes, we offer one-on-one private lessons for those new to swimming. These sessions use the same Learn to Swim curriculum but with individualized attention to help beginners progress comfortably. Our private instructors tailor their instruction to your child’s needs, ensuring strong technique, water confidence, and personalized support.

How long are beginner swim lessons?

Our beginner lessons are designed as short, focused sessions that keep new swimmers engaged and comfortable. Beginner lessons are short and focused, so swimmers stay engaged and successful. Each class runs for 20 minutes, where we work on core skills such as floating, breath control, and basic movement.

How many students are in a class?

Our focus is on quality instruction and safety. While group lessons allow a few swimmers together, we keep class sizes small so each swimmer gets attention. For those who want more tailored coaching, private (one-on-one) lessons are available to ensure concentrated guidance and quicker skill development.

Which areas do you serve?
Blue Dolphin Swim School is based in Westminster and serves families across nearby communities including Arvada, Broomfield, Thornton, Superior, Erie, Louisville, Lafayette, and surrounding areas in the northwest Denver metro region.

Free swim assessment

Not sure where to start?
Let’s find the right level.

We’ll help place your swimmer in the right program. Call or email our team to schedule a free swim assessment.