Lake Oswego & West Linn, Oregon
Aquatics Instructor · Child Development Specialist · Montessori-Trained · Father of Three
My Philosophy
My approach to working with children is rooted in the belief that every child deserves to be seen, heard, and celebrated for exactly who they are. As the father of three young daughters — including one with diagnosed Autism — I bring lived empathy alongside professional training to every interaction.
In the water and in daily life with children, I focus on building trust first. A child who feels safe will be curious. A child who is curious will grow. I draw from Montessori philosophy, current neuroscience, and over a decade of direct experience coaching and caring for young people across a wide range of ages, abilities, and backgrounds.
Swimming isn't recreation — it's survival literacy. I teach children to love and respect the water while building genuine competency and confidence.
Children learn best when they're engaged with the world around them. I design experiences that spark wonder and invite self-directed discovery.
Every child's brain is different, and that is a strength. My experience with Autism informs a patient, adaptive, and affirming approach to all learners.
I work with families, not just children. Clear, honest communication and genuine respect for your parenting values are non-negotiable for me.
Credentials & Certifications
Published Writing
I contribute regularly to OregonKid — a trusted statewide resource for parents. My articles draw on direct experience as a father, coach, and child development professional. They're written to be practical, honest, and genuinely useful.
Tips · Sports
Recommended Activities
Tips · Infant Development
Tips · Parenting
Tips · Water Safety
What Parents Say
Over six months, Alexander has nurtured and grown our child's love for swimming. Our 4 year old began afraid to get into the pool, and now can jump in, swim to the bottom, and safely swim front, back, and tread water thanks to Alexander's coaching. His approach centers on kindness and consistency — he has built our child's confidence. What's more is everyone has fun, even us parents watching!
Alexander is an amazing swim coach and we highly recommend him! He is able to connect with kids quickly and make swimming fun while also improving technique. Our daughter has been taking lessons weekly with him for almost six months and we have seen a massive improvement in her swimming abilities. Alexander goes above and beyond — jumping in the pool before class starts or staying after to work on a specific skill.
Alexander is a wonderful swim coach — the best we've had for either of our two boys! He has a natural gift in working with children, with a personality akin to a favorite uncle or older cousin. He challenges them and teaches them new skills while laughing and having fun. He is very adaptable with different age and skill levels within the same lesson, juggling options with apparent grace and ease.
With a perfect blend of skill and patience, he transformed my 4-year-old from a hesitant swimmer to confidently covering meters in the water. The personalized approach, fun lessons, and emphasis on water safety make him an outstanding instructor. I'm grateful for the remarkable progress and newfound love for swimming!
My son can be very emotional at drop-off when separated from me and Alexander has patiently navigated calming him down and getting him to engage with his lessons. He is able to effectively communicate his instructions in an age-appropriate manner to make the lesson fun and educational.
About Alexander
I hold a B.S. in Business Administration from Concordia University and have spent over a decade working in education, youth development, and nonprofit leadership across Portland — from Portland Community College to the Boys & Girls Clubs to founding an equity-focused consulting firm.
But what shapes my work most is being a dad. Raising three young daughters — including navigating an Autism diagnosis — keeps me grounded, humble, and deeply motivated to get this right for every family I serve.
Published Writing
I write regularly for OregonKid — Oregon's trusted parenting resource — drawing on real experience as a father, coach, and child development professional.
Water Safety
Sports & Activity
Recommended Activities
Infant Development
Parenting
Newsletter · Substack
Ready to Get Started?
Let's talk about your child, your goals, and whether I'm the right fit for your family. No pressure, no commitment.
Lake Oswego & West Linn, Oregon · References Available Upon Request
Get In Touch
Have a question about swim lessons, childcare, or PSW services? Fill out the form below and Alexander will get back to you within 24 hours.
Or book directly: cal.com/coachalexandert
Thank you for reaching out. Alexander will reply to your email within 24 hours.
In the meantime, feel free to book a free intro call at
cal.com/coachalexandert