My Story

From Military Bases to Clayton's Leading Swim School

Hi there! I'm Larissa, a mom of 3 and a passionate swim instructor. My journey with Alligator Steps began in Okinawa, Japan, where I created an Edutainment program for military families. Seeing the need for quality swim lessons, I expanded Alligator Steps, adding swim instruction in Turkey and eventually landing in Clayton, NC, in 2015.

Driven by the desire to provide exceptional aquatic experiences, I dedicated myself to building Clayton's first and only dedicated swim school, opening doors in 2024. My mission? To cultivate happy, confident swimmers while instilling vital water safety skills in every child.

Water Runs Deep (Literally!)

My love for the water started at 18 months old in sunny Florida. By 8, I was an eager competitor on the swim team, even reaching the State Championship! My passion led me to a BS in Exercise and Sport Sciences from the University of Florida (Go Gators!), followed by a Certified Child Development Associate degree.

Today, I hold multiple US Swim School Association certifications, including Infant/Toddler, Fundamental, and Special Abilities instruction. I believe ongoing learning is key, so I regularly attend trainings and seminars to ensure your child receives the best possible experience.

Your Child's Journey Starts Here

Learning to swim is more than just a skill; it's a life-saver. At Alligator Steps, you'll find a positive, supportive environment where children blossom into confident water explorers. Join our aquatic family, and let's make a splash together!