•  Elopement (wandering behavior): Many children on the autism spectrum are drawn to water, which can lead to dangerous situations if a child wanders from their caregiver.
• Sensory Sensitivities: Water can present overwhelming sensory experiences, from its texture to the sounds of splashing, making safety instructions harder for some children to process.
• Difficulty Recognizing Danger: Many children with autism may not intuitively recognize water as a hazard, making supervision particularly critical.

Understanding these swim safety challenges emphasizes the importance of integrating tailored drowning prevention measures into daily life.

Swim Safety Tips for Families of Children with Autism

Drowning prevention isn’t just about one solution; it requires multiple layers of protection. Below are practical strategies families can use for drowning prevention this National Water Safety Month and during the whole summer season:

1. Designate a Water Watcher

Never assume someone else is watching your child. Assign a sober, undistracted adult as the designated “Water Watcher” whenever your child is near water. This person should avoid phones and alcohol and should switch with another adult every 15-20 minutes to maintain vigilance.

The YMCA’s “Phones Down, Eyes Up” campaign perfectly captures the importance of focused attention while supervising children in or around water.

2. Use Visual Supports and Clear Rules

Children with autism prefer visual cues and social stories, which present scenarios in accessible ways and step-by-step narratives. Use signs, visual schedules, or social stories to explain safety rules. Reinforce messages like “Ask before going near water” or “Stay where an adult can see you.”

3. Enroll in Swim Lessons Early

Early swim instruction is one of the best drowning prevention tools available. Look for adaptive programs in New Hampshire or Massachusetts, like:

• Swim Angelfish: Offers specialized swim instruction for children with autism in the Northeast.
• Local YMCAs in both states, including the YMCA of Greater Boston and the YMCA of Greater Nashua, offer inclusive swim classes.

4. Install Barriers and Use Life Jackets

Physical barriers are crucial. If you have a pool at home, install four-sided fencing around any pool with self-latching gates, ensuring the fence completely isolates the pool from the house and yard, is at least four feet tall, and has a self-latching gate. Supplement this security measure with pool alarms or covers for added peace of mind.

Always use life jackets in natural water settings like lakes or the ocean. Choose U.S. Coast Guard-approved life vests and make sure they fit snugly.

5. Practice Water Safety Drills

Practice water entry and exit strategies, emergency responses, and staying calm in water. Role-play scenarios with your child to help them build confidence and preparedness. Parents and caregivers can take CPR and First Aid training to ensure they’re equipped to respond quickly during an emergency. The American Red Cross and local health organizations frequently offer courses.

How ABA Therapy Supports Swim Safety and Drowning Prevention

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy isn’t just about teaching language or social skills. It’s a powerful tool for building real-life, practical behaviors—including safety routines.