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Building Confident Swimmers One Story at a Time

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 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!

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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 14 locations across Illinois, Ohio, Kentucky, New Jersey, and Minnesota. Find a Bear Paddle location that’s convenient for you.

Bear Paddle Swim School Blog

How to Swim Sidestroke for Kids

How to Swim Sidestroke for Kids

April 10, 2024

If you’re thinking of a fun and educational activity for your kids, look no further than swimming. More than just splashing around and having fun...

The Ultimate Guide to the Breaststroke

The Ultimate Guide to the Breaststroke

April 2, 2024

Swimming is an excellent exercise and a competitive sport demanding technical finesse and endurance. One swimming stroke that has endured the test of time is...

Does My Child Need Goggles for Swim Lessons?

Does My Child Need Goggles for Swim Lessons?

March 27, 2024

Learning to swim is an important life skill that not only promotes physical activity, but also instills confidence. At Bear Paddle, our central mission is...

10 Fun & Exciting Water Activities For Kids

10 Fun & Exciting Water Activities For Kids

March 22, 2024

It can be challenging to keep your little ones entertained all spring and summer. The excitement of being outside and increasing temperatures mean the heat...

NOW ENROLLING at our newest locations! Savage, MN & Niles, ILLearn More