Autism Swim

Autism Swim (AS) are international water safety and swimming specialists for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and/or cognitive deficit.

Drowning is among the leading causes of death in individuals with ASD. Over 90% of total death reports in children with ASD under 14 was a result of accidental drowning.¹

AS is run by Autism Specialists and swimming teachers who understand the complexities of ASD and what support mechanisms are necessary to educate individuals on water safety, and equip them with the necessary skills to be confident in the water. Our aim is to lower the statistics of drowning deaths in the ASD population group, imparting knowledge on how individuals with ASD process and acquire skill-sets, in a fun and supportive environment.

Autism Swim is the first swim company in Australia run by Autism Specialists, dedicated solely to individuals with Autism. Autism Swim is the peak body in Australia for swimming and water safety for individuals with ASD.

• Swimming fulfils many sensory needs in a low stimulus environment
• The repetitive nature of swimming has multiple therapeutic benefits
• Gross Motor output - an outcome of swimming - is an essential self-regulation tool for individuals with ASD
• Swimming lessons and aquatics programs in general aim to increase an individual’s level of safety in aquatic environments through teaching specific relevant skills and instilling confidence in the swimmer. These are potentially life-saving skills
• Frequent swimming often results in increased coordination, mobility and balance
• Swimming generates opportunities for further cognitive benefits, including increased communication skills, through skill development
• Swimming results in increased fitness, joint stability and muscle strength and tone
• Swimming can assist in training an individual in body sensation, body awareness, joint position, spatial awareness and posture control
• Swimming provides a social outlet
• It's fun!

 
¹ Reference - McIlwain, L. National Autism Association – Lethal Outcomes In ASD Wandering. January 2012.