Swim Safety

As we transition from a rainy spring to warm summer months, there is a lot to look forward to! Whether your family prefers backyard barbecues, spending time at the beach or swimming in a nearby pool, it’s hard not to get excited about the upcoming summer activities.

Tragically, accidental drowning is the cause of 91% of deaths in children with autism under the age of 14, according to the National Autism Association. While these statistics may sound frightening, there are plenty of precautions you can take to decrease the risk of drowning accidents and ensure you and your family have a safe and enjoyable summer!

  1. Expose your child to water at an early age:

Introducing children to water at an early age increases their confidence and comfort level around it, especially for those children who may be nervous. Before getting into a pool or visiting somewhere near water, prepare your child by discussing rules, safety tips and dangers associated with swimming. Consider using visuals or social stories to support these discussions. Then, practice engaging in safe waterplay at home, either in a bathtub or a kiddie pool. Ensure you are teaching safety skills such as safe areas to enter and exit the pool, deep end vs. shallow end, recognizing potential hazards, etc.

  1. Invest in swimming lessons:

While we hope your child never is in a position of falling into a body of water, preparing your child for what to do in a dangerous situation is crucial to ensuring their safety. Enroll your child in swim lessons as soon as possible to ensure they build the appropriate swim safety skills. These include learning to roll over and float on their backs, swimming to a pool’s edge, kicking and treading water, and more. Not only do swim lessons teach essential safety skills, but for children who enjoy being in the water, this will be a fun and enjoyable experience for them! If possible, look for swim instructors who specialize in working with neurodiverse children and will prioritize water safety.

  1. Ensure proper supervision in and around the water:

No matter what setting your child is swimming in – whether it’s a full-sized pool or just a kiddie pool – proper supervision is essential. Adult supervision at all times is important, but having an adult in the water with the child is preferred, as they will have a better understanding of the child’s swim abilities and be able to quickly assist the child if needed. Never leave a child unattended near water, and ensure you have fences or gates around bodies of water (i.e. backyard pools and hot tubs) to prevent unsupervised access.

  1. Use proper flotation and safety devices:

Depending on your child’s swim abilities, consider using proper flotation devices or swimming aids to provide an extra level of safety and support. Discuss options with a swim instructor who can recommend suitable devices based on your child’s needs and abilities. Ensure that any device you use is properly fitted and functional.

  1. Support Sensory Needs:

Swimming can be very relaxing and enjoyable, however for children with sensory challenges, it may cause some anxiety and discomfort. Gradually expose your child to water-related sensations and activities such as sprinklers, pouring water over their hands, blowing bubbles, and going underwater in the bath. Swimming pools and beaches can also be loud and overwhelming for your child. Consider providing them with headphones or earplugs to minimize auditory distractions and create a more calming and enjoyable atmosphere. Before swimming lessons or a day at the beach, prepare your child for the loud sound of a lifeguard’s whistle. Demonstrate them at home and explain why there are used and allow your child to try it out for themselves!

  1. Be patient and communicate with your child:

Whether your child is just learning to swim or has been swimming for some time, it is always important to be patient. Give your child time and space to get comfortable around a pool, take breaks from swimming as needed and remind your child you are there to support them. Listen to your child’s communication (vocal and non-vocal) for signs that they may be uncomfortable.

  1. Have Fun!

Swimming can be an extremely enjoyable and therapeutic experience for you and your child. By taking the proper preventative steps and understanding the unique challenges individuals with autism may face in water environments, you can ensure their safety and allow them to reap the benefits of swimming. With proper supervision, preparation and support, individuals with autism can develop their swimming skills and enjoy the water with confidence.

Mackenzie Quain, BCBA

Resources:

  1. Swimming With A Mission (S.W.A.M) Ottawa: Provides accessible and affordable one-on-one swimming lessons to neurodiverse children.

https://www.ottawa.on.swamcanada.ca/register/

  1. RA Center Adaptive Swim Lessons : One-on-One adaptive swimming lessons to support children and youth with additional needs.

https://www.racentre.com/one-on-one-adaptive-swim-lessons.html

  1. City of Ottawa Inclusive Recreation:

https://ottawa.ca/en/recreation-and-parks/inclusive-recreation

  1. Hippo In The Bathtub: Provides a focused pool environment for children (including neurodiverse children) to become safe and strong swimmers. Private and Semi-Private lessons available.

https://hippointhebathtub.ca/indoorservices/

  1. Kids Can Swim: Offers personalized swim services, science-based swim lessons, and dedicated aquatic instructors.

https://www.kidscanswimcanada.ca/

  1. Aqua Tots Swim Schools: https://www.aqua-tots.com/kanata/
  2. DoverCourt Swim Lessons: https://www.dovercourt.org/swim/