South Florida Swim Safety For Autistic Kids

Autism is an extremely complex disorder and can be difficult to explain, as we are still learning more about it. Not to down play what autism is but to explain what it effects in a simple manner we can break it down into four fundamental areas which include sensory processing challenges, speech/language delays and impairments, the elusive social interaction skills and whole child/self-esteem issues. Each child has their own unique set of needs and capabilities. With autistic children they can often be unaware of the world around them putting them at a greater risk for potential drowning. A ten-year-old autistic boy was found lifeless in his neighbor’s pool. His death and the hundreds of accidental drowning that occur in Florida each year can be prevented through swim safety. One such tool in the area of swim safety is swimming lessons.

The most difficult aspect of autism may be sensory integration. Ordinary sights, sounds, smells, tastes and touches of everyday that you or I may not even notice can be downright painful for an autistic child. The very environment often seems hostile. This is why a certified swim instructor who is very gentle, comforting and kind should provide swimming lessons for a child on the autistic spectrum. Julie Gross and her team of certified swim instructors understand the needs and care taken in teaching autistic kids to swim.

The goal of the Swim With Mr. Blue Team is to teach children to swim safely and successfully in the water. Through the Swim With Mr. Blue book and DVD as well as songs and puppets all kids can enjoy the colorful characters while learning to swim safely in a safe and fun environment. Parents and guardians can find further autism support and information by visiting the Autism Society Of America site and search by chapter such as the South Florida Broward chapter. Teaching autistic kids in South Florida to swim better aids them in their own personal safety, growth and development.

For more information about swimming lessons for autistic kids South Florida visit www.swimwithmrblue.com.