OUR WHY
Drowning is the leading cause of death for individuals on the spectrum at all ages.
Individuals on the spectrum are 160 times more likely to experience drowning than their neurotypical peers.
Adaptive swim programs are often gated by limited availability or high costs for families in need.
Based on the estimated populations in SE Michigan and NW Ohio, there are thousands of individuals who would benefit from adaptive swim lessons.
Fascination with Water:
Many children with autism are naturally drawn to water, which can lead to dangerous situations if proper supervision is not maintained.
KEY FACTORS
CONTRIBUTING TO DROWNING
Wandering Behavior:
A common behavior among children with autism is wandering or "elopement," where they leave safe environments without alerting caregivers. This behavior often leads them to bodies of water, increasing the risk of drowning.
Lack of Danger Awareness:
Some children with autism may not fully comprehend the dangers associated with water, making them more susceptible to accidental drowning.
Identification:
Equipping children with autism with identification bracelets or GPS trackers can assist in locating them quickly if they wander.
PREVENTATIVE MEASURES
Safety Barriers:
Installing fences with self-closing, self-latching gates around pools and other water sources can act as a deterrent.
Supervision:
Constant and vigilant supervision around water bodies is crucial.
Swimming Lessons:
Teaching children with autism to swim can be a life-saving skill.
KEY BENEFITS OF ADAPTIVE SWIM LESSONS
Physical Development:
Engaging in swimming enhances muscle strength, coordination, and lung capacity. The buoyancy of water provides a gentle environment for strengthening muscles and improving balance.
Behavioral Improvements:
Regular participation in adaptive swim programs can lead to better self-regulation, increased attentiveness, and a reduction in sensory aversions.
Cognitive and Communication Skills:
Adaptive swim lessons support the development of communication abilities, social skills, and cognitive processes. The structured environment allows individuals to learn at their own pace, fostering confidence and self-esteem.
Upstream Problem Solving:
By educating individuals on the spectrum through swim lessons, we are targeting the upstream problem contributing to the high drowning rates.
Safety Awareness:
These lessons emphasize water safety, teaching essential skills such as floating, entering and exiting the pool safely, and understanding drowning prevention.
Sensory Integration:
The water's sensory properties can help reduce sensory overload, offering a calming effect and aiding in sensory processing.