The initial training session includes a range of topics, including what it means to have an ASD diagnosis; common co-occurring conditions; behaviours of concern; communication; wandering; the relationship between swimming/aquatics and ASD; sensory difficulties; drownings; child protection; and Positive Behaviour Support (to name just a few). The monthly resources you receive are very targeted to specific aquatic skill-sets, common challenges experienced and different methodologies to use with your swimmers.

You’re under no obligation to use all of the resources, ideas, etc. that we give you. They are there as a guide. Keep in mind that we don’t give you a set program for your swimmers, as no such thing exists which is going to be relevant to all of your swimmers. Instead, we give you the knowledge, support and a toolbox of resources which allow you to tailor your lessons according to each swimmer’s needs, preferences, learning styles and goals.

It’ll be time to upgrade your training, knowledge and expertise!
We are on a constant pursuit to learn more and better our skills, and we hope you are too! Each year, our training and resources become more advanced. You will develop a deeper understanding of occupational therapy, exercise physiotherapy and behavioural support concepts.

Of course, you have the option not to renew if your path is taking you in a different direction – in which instance we’ll take your details off the website and you will not have any access to the learning material or support group.

We have a locations tab on our website. Families can enter their postcode to find their closest Autism Swim Approved Provider. Alternatively, they contact us via email and we provide them with the necessary details for the certified provider closest to them. We find that more often than not, the cost of signing up with Autism Swim as a centre is quickly covered by the number of new referrals coming to you.

We always recommend 1:1 lessons, as least to begin with. This allows you to target some key individualised goals and safety skills for the participant. As their skills increase, you may then like to look into part of the lesson being undertaken with another student of similar skill-sets (and build up from there), however this will be dependent on the individual goals of the swimmer. Although we suggest 1:1 initially, as long as your lessons do not exceed 1:3 in ratio, they can still be considered as part of the Autism Swim program. It all comes down to the goals and needs of your individual swimmer.

Autism Swim stipulates the following qualifications as prerequisites to becoming Autism Swim Approved:

• A qualification in Teacher in Swimming and Water Safety (or equivalent in country)
• A relevant 4yr therapy degree including Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Exercise Physiotherapy, Speech Pathology, Psychology, BCBA, Behavioural Science or allied health professional
• A 4yr degree in the education or social sciences sectors.Anyone who does not meet these prerequisites, are welcome to undertake Autism Swim’s training and receive Autism Swim’s resources, however will not be considered Autism Swim Approved until one of the above prerequisites is met;