Some kiddos might have different sensory reactions to the activity of swimming, or more physical limitations than their typically developing peers.

That being said, swimming is just as important for individuals with special needs as it is for neurotypical kids.

Why swimming is important for safety

Many individuals with special needs tend to elope. By eloping, we mean that an individual wanders out of the care and safety of their caregiver and into a potentially dangerous situation.

Elopement can be especially scary when a body of water is involved. According to the National Autism Association, “Drowning is among the leading causes of death of individuals with autism,” and the instances in which an individual drowns are due to elopement. Elopement can be really scary! Teaching your kiddo how to swim might help save their life.

Great for exercise and physical development

Physical exercise is key for a healthy body and mind. Swimming is one of the most holistic methods for anyone of any ability to get the exercise they need.

Swim lessons provide kiddos an opportunity to move independently, increase cardiovascular health, and build strength and confidence

An amazingly therapeutic experience designed as fun

In its own way, swimming is the best kind of ninja therapy! From helping with sensory processing difficulties to encouraging task completion, swimming is a great therapeutic activity disguised as fun. Just about every kiddo loves swimming. Swimming is an important way for your kiddo to interact and integrate with their environment.

From the feeling of water, a swimsuit, sand or silt, pool noodles, bubbles, splashing water, it engages almost every sense. Kids can see the water move, feel the vestibular input of the water, feel the stony sensation of a pool or the sand of a beach, hear the waves or splash of the water, feel the sunlight, smell the scents of chlorine, saltwater, or sunscreen, and so much more.

Kiddos can get great vestibular input from the rocking and soothing motion of water moving. Swimming encourages proprioceptive feedback by helping kiddos understand where their body begins and ends in space by having direct resistance from the water on their bodies and muscles in a manner that frees mobility.

It can be important for environmental integration for a kiddo to experience all of the sensory input that swimming has to offer. Acquainting your kiddo to that environment at home in the bathtub or a kiddie pool can help ease the transition into swim lessons or beachfronts.

As a bonus, swim lessons help your kiddos interact with peers! Swim lessons are often done as a class, so your kiddo gets socialization as well, which can help fight off the blues and depression some children with special needs experience.

Getting the right stuff for swimming

Finding adaptive swimming accessories is easier said than done. We offer a few products that you might have been looking for.

If your kiddo has trouble with incontinence in the pool, check out some swim diapers here. If your kiddo needs a little head and neck support, we’ve got just the floaties you’ve been looking for. If your child has hearing difficulties or hates the feeling of water in their ears, we’ve got the Ear Band-It and some putty. eSpecial Needs has got you covered.

Don’t fear it

Many parents of individuals with special needs worry for their children in the pool. While it might seem like swimming is going to be a difficulty for your kiddo, they’ll be okay!

Finding a good swim teacher is necessary. While your child might not swim like you, they’ll still swim in their own way using their unique abilities.

Where to find swim lessons

The YMCA is an inclusive institution that has staff that is trained and well equipped to teach your kiddos how to swim. Many communities have a YMCA or a pool that teaches swimming. If you’re having trouble finding the right program for you, ask around! Your pediatrician, therapist, or specialist might be able to give you a few names of referrals for your little one to learn to swim

Keep moving forward

Swimming isn’t always easy. One of the toughest things to do is to keep moving forward, even when it feels like you might be taking a step back. Your kiddo might not be the happiest about learning how to swim but keep trying.

Remember, you’re both human, so work within your means. If it’s the first day of swim lessons and your kiddo has a meltdown from sensory overload, it might be time to go. That’s okay! Try again another day. If that doesn’t work, keep trying. Not everything is going to be perfect or idea on the first try. Encouraging your kiddo’s safety is a top priority.