I’m a Sacramento swim instructor on a mission…

But I didn’t plan to start a business… so, how did we get here?

I spent 15 years teaching traditional swim lessons before everything changed.

The first time I watched a baby roll onto their back to float, rest, and breathe during my instructor training, I felt instant relief. I already believed these little ones were capable, but never in my wildest dreams did I imagine I’d be able to help in such an impactful way. Very quickly, the business of helping your babies became my baby.


That’s when this job turned into a mission: Saving Little Lives™

Caitlin MacDougald, ISR-certified swim instructor in Sacramento, holding a pineapple in a lighthearted brand photo representing the fun, approachable vibe of self-rescue swim lessons for infants and toddlers.

In 2012, I earned my Bachelor's degree in Child Development from Sacramento State University. That foundation gave me a deep understanding of how children grow, process new information, and respond to challenges which allows me to tailor each swim lesson to your child’s unique developmental needs.

When I’m not teaching, you can find me open water swimming in Lake Natoma or walking our American River parkway trails with my labrador, Blue.

I also support other instructors through The Deep End, a community for swim instructors looking to grow their reach, refine their messaging, and build sustainable, impactful swim lesson businesses in their own communities. If you're an instructor looking for business guidance, CLICK HERE.

This Isn’t a Summer Job. It’s My Life’s Work.

My approach is rooted in behavioral science and shaped by 20 years of experience in the water. I use proven, research backed methods in a compassionate, structured environment, one that helps children feel confident as they’re learning lifesaving swim skills.

I’m a firm-but-fun instructor who knows that even the most careful families can face accidents. That’s why these lessons aren’t about splashing or singing songs. They’re about giving your child real skills that could one day save their life.

If you’re searching for:

  • Infant swim lessons in Sacramento

  • Self-rescue swim training for toddlers

  • Private swim lessons designed for water safety and survival

…you’re in the right place.


You’re not just signing up for swim lessons, you’re making a choice to truly protect your child around water. The kind of protection that comes from real, practiced skills. My lessons go beyond comfort in the water and teach your child how to float, breathe, and self-rescue, AKA, how to find their air if no one is there.