Our Vision

To create a bold, empowering swim pathway for children with intellectual and developmental disabilities — where confidence, resilience, and teamwork are forged in the water. We believe that learning to swim is not only a vital life skill, but also a source of immense joy, freedom, and personal growth. Every child deserves the chance to feel the thrill of gliding through the water, to discover the sensation of swimming independently, and to grow stronger with each stroke. Whether their goal is water safety, fitness, or pursuing competitive opportunities within Special Olympics Ontario, Swim to Shine supports every child in rising to their full potential.

Program Overview

Swim to Shine is a high-energy, 3-stage swim progression program designed for children ages 2.75 and up with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Each 55-minute weekly lesson is built around consistency, safety, and empowerment — helping swimmers grow physically, emotionally, and socially at a pace that supports their unique needs. Whether your child is stepping into the water for the first time or striving for more advanced skills, our program builds confidence, resilience, and independence — one splash at a time.

Coaching Methodology 

In Swim to Shine, our coaching approach is built on clarity, connection, and compassion. Each skill is first explained in simple, encouraging language, then demonstrated clearly so swimmers can learn by both hearing and seeing. With patience and positivity, our coaches guide swimmers as they practice, offering gentle corrections and consistent motivation every step of the way. Most importantly, our coaches connect with each child personally — pushing them within their abilities and celebrating every win, no matter how small. Through this method, swimmers build not just skills, but confidence, resilience, and joy in the water.

Stage 1: Little Ripples
(Parent & Tot - Level 2 | Ages 2.75+)

Every swim journey begins with a splash — and in Little Ripples, we lay the foundation for a lifetime of confidence in the water. This stage focuses on building water comfort, coordinated movement, and safety through coach-guided instruction. The Little Ripples program incorporates the 3-2-1 Swim Pack — a proprietary learn to swim system developed by Kaizen Kidz that provides buoyancy and allows swimmers to progress at their own pace. As swimmers reach specific milestones, foam layers are removed to replicate the proper swim position so the transition to an independent swim with coach supervision is methodical and safe. 

Objective:
To build water confidence, foundational swim skills, and safety-focused independence, while allowing each swimmer to progress at their own pace through the 3-2-1 Swim Pack milestones — ultimately leading to swimming 10 meters independently under coach supervision.

Stage 2: Wave Builders
(Levels 3–8)

For swimmers who have built basic comfort and independence. This stage introduces stroke development, breath control, and endurance. Children learn front crawl, back crawl, elementary backstroke, and breaststroke in a supportive, structured setting.

Objective:
Stroke development, breath control, coordination, and endurance

Stage 3: Champion Currents
(Levels 9–10)

Our advanced level focuses on technique refinement, stamina, and advanced aquatic skills. Swimmers build the strength and discipline to swim longer distances and explore advanced strokes — including Dolphin Kick and Travelling Eggbeater. Perfect for swimmers aiming for lifelong confidence or competition.

Objective:
Technique refinement, stamina building, advanced safety, and personal growth