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If you’re looking for a great cause to get behind and want to do your bit to change the drowning statistics, we would be forever indebted for your support.

Autism Swim

International Water Safety and Swimming Specialists in Autism Spectrum Disorder

About Us

Autism Swim is an international, social enterprise of experts specialising in wandering and drowning prevention for those with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other abilities.

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Autism Swim was established in 2016 by Founder and Clinical Director Erika Gleeson (G.C Autism, B.A Behavioural Science).

Erika is a Senior Behaviour and Skill Development Specialist in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and cognitive deficit; and is widely recognised as Australia’s leading expert in Wandering and Drowning prevention for those with ASD/cognitive deficit.

Autism Swim is an international, multi-disciplinary organisation, combining the expertise of Autism Specialists, Behaviour Specialists, Occupational Therapists and Swimming Instructors to achieve the best possible outcomes for the individuals whom they support. Autism Swim also operates under the skilled leadership of an Advisory Board.

ADVISORY BOARD

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Doctor Geoff Potter

Autism Specialist
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Cheryl Pettinau

PR and Communications
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Alexandra Scott

Policy Advisor
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Audrey Variyan

Swimming Instructor and Parent

WHO DO WE WORK WITH?

  • Swim Centres and Instructors
  • Aquatic Therapists
  • Parents and families
  • Schools (both specialised and mainstream)
  • Surf Life Saving Clubs
  • Government bodies
  • Not-for-profits
  • Education bodies
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AQUATIC PROFESSIONALS

We work with swimming instructors, swim centres, therapists and other aquatic professions; providing them with training, resources and support so that they are better geared to teach individuals with ASD and cognitive deficit. As a result, they become Autism Swim Approved.

See our swimming instructor, swim centre or aquatic therapist page for more information.

Become Autism Swim Approved

PARENTS

Parents benefit from receiving expert resources, training, workshops, individualised programs and strategies on wandering and drowning prevention.

Click below for more information on our parent training and membership options.

Online Parents Training Options

WHY WE EXIST

150

children are diagnosed with ASD every hour. That’s about 1.3 million diagnosed every year.

160

That’s how many times more likely drowning occurrence is for someone with ASD than a child without.

91%

of parents in our community have left other aquatic services due to them not understanding their child’s needs.

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