Benefits of Swimming for Autism

At Sunsational Swim School, we believe that all children should have the opportunity to learn skills they can take with them throughout life. Throughout the blog, we will touch on some benefits that swimming can have for children and adults who are on the autism spectrum, and some of the water safety skills that can be the most beneficial!

It is important to note that emphasizing and educating the swimmer about water safety is of the utmost importance. Because children and adults on the autism spectrum are usually enticed by water, they are especially at risk of drowning, and it is that much more important to keep them safe!

Swimming and Autism Benefits:

An Expressive Outlet

Since swimming is a team sport that can also be done individually, the swimmer does not have the added pressure of performing well for the success of a team. They are doing it for themselves and themselves only. It can also be shown that a swimmer can improve speech and cognitive function, social skills, and self-esteem. Swimming provides a way for the person to remain in the environment, while also participating up to the point where they feel comfortable.

Therapy

Water is often seen as a soothing and repetitive motion and can help relax children. Other benefits of swimming can include improved cognitive and speech function, according to an article posted by the International Journal of Sports Psychology. After swimming lessons or pool time, parents have reported increased ability to cope with everyday stresses outside of the pool. Exercising often releases endorphins, and the same can be done for children who are on the autism spectrum. While in the water, the swimmer might not even realize they are exercising, thus making them happier without even realizing it!

Drowning Prevention

For children and adults on the autism spectrum,drowning is the leading cause of accidental death. When faced with outside stressors, children and adults may venture to unfamiliar locations, which puts them at a higher risk because they may not know the potential dangers of those places. According to the National Autism Association, approximately 90% of reported accidental deaths of children under the age of 14 with autism was caused by drowning. By teaching basic skills and important water safety techniques, we can save lives and prevent accidental drowning.

Water Safety

Because drowning is such a serious concern, especially for children and adults on the autism spectrum, teaching water safety skills is of the utmost importance. Many children and adults on the autism spectrum are often drawn to water, and if unsupervised, this can be dangerous. Here is a list of some important skills to teach to ensure safety:

• Become familiar and educate – If your autistic child is new to spending time around the water, it is common for them to be a little bit nervous. It can be helpful to share stories of fun times you have had in the water, or even how you were able to become comfortable in the water. You might want to start out by sticking your toes or feet in the water first to show that it is safe. This is a great time to establish rules and explain that the water can be dangerous as well.
• Review Safety Rules – It is important for them to never be around water without a parent or guardian present. If you have a pool around your house, it should always be gated and locked. It is especially important for you to establish a way for your swimmer to communicate their desire to go near or in the water.
• Use helpful swimming gear – As a precaution, you should always use a flotation device when your swimmer is around water. Even if they do not plan on going in the water at that time, accidents can happen quickly and they might fall in. If that were to happen, it is important that they have something that will keep them safe. Some examples of tools you can use are: kick boards, pool noodles, flotation devices, and goggles. These tools can definitely enhance the experience of your swimmer and can help give him/her the experience they need to be safe!
• Start Early – If possible, try to teach your child with autism to be comfortable and safe in the water at a young age. It is never too early to teach water safety skills, and picture cards or stories can be helpful!

At Sunsational Swim School, you have the ability to request instructors who have experience working with children or adults who are on the autism spectrum. Because we offer individual swimming lessons, our instructors can provide the swimmer with an individualized plan suited for the wants and needs of the swimmer. Also, we are able to provide a calm, familiar, and reassuring environment, and are able to meet the swimmers where they feel most comfortable.

Click here to learn more about instructors in your area, and to book lessons today!

Olivia Darr’s bio:

Swim Instructor in Columbia, SC

Olivia is a part time competitive swim coach and teaches swimming lessons on the side in Columbia, South Carolina. She loves teaching kids how to love and feel safe in the water. Olivia has experience teaching students of all ages, from 10 months to adult. She is excited to help you discover your love of swimming!