About Emler

Emler has been setting the standard in children’s swim education for 50 years, through expert swim instruction and a proven, play-based approach. With more than a million lessons taught and over 15,000 five-star reviews, we’re proud to be a trusted leader in teaching children how to swim safely and successfully. Today, Emler is part of a growing family of swim and gymnastic schools focused on helping kids thrive, one splash, stretch, and step at a time.

Toddler with his tongue out learning to swim in the pool with a floaty

Our Award-Winning Curriculum

For 50 years, our ever-evolving techniques and methodology continue to establish us as the industry leader among all youth swim schools.

We have identified 100+ milestones and broken them up over 11 different levels. Each level is specifically designed with their own unique milestones for advancement so children can learn to swim in a way that doesn’t feel overwhelming. While teaching swimming is a significant part of our focus, we also place a strong emphasis on water safety. We incorporate unique and specific movements, props, songs, verbal cues, and prizes to make swim lessons the highlight of your child’s week!

"Jump, Turn, Swim" Method

Children learn how to jump into the water, turn around, and grab the wall for safety.

Clothesline Day

We have a specifically dedicated day to teach children how to react if they fall into water fully clothed.

Boat Safety Day

On this day, children will be fitted for a life jacket and learn how to float, balance, and kick while wearing it. Children will also be taught the international signal for help.

Our History

Emler Swim School was founded in 1975 by Jan Emler who started a career as a lifeguard and swim instructor. While working, Jan saw a need for a more focused and nurturing approach to teaching children how to swim. Her belief was every child has the ability to swim, and she could help them discover how in a fun and playful environment.

Jan started teaching lessons in backyard pools. Word quickly spread about the effectiveness of Emler’s approach. Now we are proud to have over 35 locations across the country with more coming soon!

With 50 years of experience and trust behind our name, Emler is now the foundation of a growing network of swim and gymnastics schools across the country. While each school brings its own local legacy, all share our commitment to safety, confidence, and exceptional instruction. Together, we’re helping more kids thrive, one splash, stretch, and milestone at a time. Learn more about our expanded network at emlerswimgym.com.

Emler CARES

We believe swim schools play an important role in the local community. In addition to our dedication to water safety, we give back to our local communities through Emler CARES. Each month, the staff and families at our schools participate in volunteer and charity events.

Community Involvement

Our Facilities

Every Emler Swim School is designed with state-of-the-art facilities to make children feel comfortable and safe.

Crystal Clear Pools

Our crystal clear pools are small and comfortably shallow – with a maximum 4 feet depth – and are heated to 90 degrees year-round. The air temperature within the pool environment is maintained at 80-90 degrees, so no one steps out of the water shivering. And water is purified around the clock by high-end UV water purification systems that kill any dangerous microorganisms and eradicate any contaminants. Thanks to our advanced UV water purification, our pools require much less chlorine, limiting respiratory problems, eye and skin irritation, and that “chlorine smell” most people encounter at indoor swimming pools.

Cutting-Edge Air Filtration Systems

Cutting-edge air filtration systems continuously expel stale air and replace it with pure, fresh air, creating a safe environment for everyone – even children who have respiratory problems such as asthma.

Glassed-In Observation Room

Our glassed-in observation room gives you a clear view of your child at all times, but you’re welcome to sit poolside if you prefer. And our individual changing rooms ensure privacy for you and your child, before and after swimming lessons.

Safety at Emler

The safety of our swim students and team members is our #1 priority. Team members receive ongoing safety training and practice the emergency action plan regularly. Our instructors work hands-on in the pool with their students, and class ratios are kept small to promote a safe environment.

UV water purification and air filtration systems help keep our facilities healthy and clean. All pools are inspected by local health department authorities and all state and local safety regulations are followed. In addition, parents are required to remain on-site, watching their children at all times.