The Benefits of our 'learn-to-swim' programs for Individuals With Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Learning how to swim is an important, life-long skill, and it's benefits extend far beyond mere proficiency in the water. For individuals living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), participating in learn-to-swim programs can be transformative, offering a range of physical, mental, and social benefits that can be used in aquatic environments, and transfered to other environments such as school, and within the individual's broader community. Let's explore why these programs are not just about swimming, but about fostering independence and well-being.

Background and Statistics:

Children and adults often have a strong attraction to water due to its ability to regulate emotional and sensory needs through visual, physical and auditory cues. Despite water being a positive and nurturing tool for individual's with ASD, it can also be a hazardous environement for children and adults who are inexperienced, and who have not had exposure and lessons under the supervision of a professional. Children and Adults are often drawn to water and have tendencies to wander. As a result, children and adults with ASD are at a higher risk of drowning. Research conducted by Royal Surf Life Saving Australia found that between the years 2003 and 2018, Children aged 0 to 9 years accounted for 70% of ASD-related drowning deaths. Furthermore, drowning is the No. 1 cause of death for children of all ages with ASD, and drowning accounts for 46% of all injury deaths among children with ASD - translating to 160 times the chance of drowning leading to death compared to children who do not have ASD. These statistics, and the lived experiences of individuals has increased the awareness and importance of 1:1 and 1:2 swimming lessons for children and adults with ASD. Not only have health professionals, and swimming instructors noticed that swimming is important to address common physical characterises of individuals with ASD; such as low muscle tone, hyperflexable joints, and decreased upper limb and lower limb co-ordination, but they also found that specalised swimming programs can address sensory and emotional needs, communication needs, and can improve social interactions.

Key Components of Learn-to-Swim Programs for Individuals with ASD:

1. Structured and Predictable Environment: For Children and Adults with ASD, programs and environments that are structured and predictable help with minimising the effects of overwhelming stimuli, and can provide a safe space for children and adults to learn. Children and adults with ASD who attend mainstream swimming lessons may feel the need to mask their natural self to conform to the social pressures around them. However, by providing support in a 1:1 or 1:2 environment with clear routines, visual schedules, and consistent instructions, individuals tend to feel more empowered and confident.
   

2. Visual Supports and Communication Aids: Children and Adults may require additional support to enhance their understanding and facilitate communication during lessons. Common Visual supports, such as picture schedules, social stories, and visual cues, are commonly used, and help individuals with ASD comprehend expectations and transitions.
   

3. Adapted Teaching Techniques: Instructors employ adapted teaching techniques that accommodate diverse learning styles and sensory profiles. This might include using physical prompts, offering breaks as needed, or adjusting the pace of instructions to ensure understanding and engagement.
   

4. Focus on Water Safety: Learn-to-swim programs emphasise water safety skills tailored to the needs of individuals with ASD. This includes teaching techniques for floating, treading water, and basic swimming strokes, as well as educating participants about recognising and responding to water hazards.
   

Benefits and Outcomes of 1:1 and 1:2 swimming lessons:

1. Tailored Instruction: In a 1:1 and 1:2 setting, personalised instructions can be used to match the individual's learning style, preferences, and abilities. This personalised approach allows for greater flexibility in adapting teaching methods and pace to accommodate sensory sensitivities, communication differences, and any anxieties the individual may experience.
   

2. Reduced Sensory Overload: Many individuals with ASD are sensitive to sensory stimuli, including noise, crowds, and unfamiliar environments. 1:1 and 1:2 lessons typically take place in a quieter and more controlled environment, such as a private pool or a designated area of a public pool. This reduces sensory overload and helps the individual focus better on learning swimming skills without distractions.
   

3. Increased Attention and Engagement: Individuals with ASD may struggle with attention regulation and may benefit from the focused attention of a professional during their swimming lessons. The instructor can maintain the individual's engagement by providing clear, consistent instructions and immediate feedback, which helps reinforce learning and build confidence in the water.
   

4. Building Trust and Comfort: Establishing a trusting relationship between each other is crucial for successful learning. In a 1:1 and 1:2 setting, the individual can develop a rapport with the instructor over time, which can reduce anxiety and enhance the learning experience. This trust allows the individual to feel more comfortable in the water and more willing to attempt new skills.
   

5. Safety and Progress Monitoring: Safety is paramount in swimming instruction, especially for individuals with autism who may have limited awareness of water safety risks. In a 1:1 and 1:2 lesson, the instructor can closely monitor the individual's progress, provide immediate assistance if needed, and ensure that safety measures are strictly followed throughout the lesson.
   

6. Individualised Goal Setting: 1:1 and 1:2 lessons allow for the establishment of personalised goals based on the individual's abilities and developmental milestones. The instructor can set achievable objectives, track progress over time, and adjust the lesson plans as necessary to ensure continuous improvement and skill development.
   

7. Supporting Independence and Confidence: Mastering swimming skills can significantly boost self-confidence and independence for individuals with autism. In a private lesson, the individual has the opportunity to practice and refine skills at their own pace, gradually building competence and self-assurance in the water. This accomplishment extends beyond swimming proficiency to positively impact overall confidence in daily life activities.

At Inclusive Movment Physiotherapy, our team has had extensive experience and training in aquatic environments, and utilise all the principle's above to ensure that you, or your child's experience is fun, and rewarding. Our 1:1 and 1:2 swimming lessons offer a supportive and individualised approach that caters to the unique needs of individuals with ASD. By focusing on personalised instruction, sensory needs, fostering trust and engagement, ensuring safety, and promoting skill development and confidence, our lessons create a conducive environment for learning and enjoyment in the water.

References:

1. https://www.royallifesaving.com.au/stay-safe-active/risk-factors/autism-spectrum-disorder-and-drowning

2. https://autismswim.com.au