Water Safety Tips For Kids with Autism

As the temperature rises, so does the desire to navigate toward the nearest cool body of water. Summer is the season of pools, splash pads, lake trips and backyard sprinklers - what more could you ask for? However fun the water may be, though, there is always a need for extra caution when children are involved, and that’s no different for children with autism.

It’s not uncommon for children with autism to naturally be drawn to the water, but challenges may arise due to communication, impulse control, or just overall understanding the risk of danger. By thinking ahead to plan out some proactive water safety tips, your family can feel good enjoying a great time in the water while making sure everyone stays safe! Keep these tips in mind this summer:

Clear, Simple Rules

Just like the water in your favorite swimming pool, rules should remain crystal clear. Make sure your family’s rules for the water are common knowledge throughout the household, taking time to review them in a way that makes sense for your child prior to engaging in any water-based activity. Use clear, specific language and visuals if needed. Stay consistent with the rules, repeating them as needed until they are part of the routine to reinforce understanding. Some rules to consider may include:

• Do not play in the water without an adult’s permission and supervision

• Always walk near the pool

• Keep your hands to yourself in the water

Visual Supports

New and stimulating environments can be easier to manage when an autistic child is prepared for what to expect. This can be done with a visual aid or social stories as a way to walk the child through what to expect in a way that makes the most sense for them. These tools can be helpful whether you’re visiting a pool, lake, water park or even just splashing around in your own yard. Some things to include might be:

• Visual example of the area

• Rules about when they can go into the water

• Who else is expected to be there

• An action plan for if they feel overwhelmed

With the right kind of preparation, your child will be more likely to enjoy themselves with less anxiety.

Supervise, Supervise, Supervise

It’s imperative that a trusted adult be nearby during any water activity. Children with autism can sometimes wander, act impulsively or get overstimulated easily around water. Due to this, supervision needs to not just be within sight, but within arm’s reach. A designated adult should be on duty at all times, prepared to stand guard without any distractions. Even in shallow or safe-seeming water situations, being alert can prevent accidents in just a second.

Use Safety Gear

The level of safety gear needed depends on each individual child and the activity at hand. No matter what though, it’s important to stick to proper safety procedures even for short time periods. Water wing and cute floats are fun, but aren’t a substitute for more proper safety gear. It’s recommended to have a properly-fitted Coast Guard-approved life jacket anywhere near open water, even for those who know how to swim. Having clear, consistent safety guidelines will establish consistent habits that make safety second-nature.

Boundaries & Barriers

If you have a swimming pool, hot tub or any other body of water on your property, make sure that they are physically secured with locked fencing, pool alarms or door alarms that alert someone to movement near the water. The same goes for visiting someone else’s home or going on vacation - ask about the water safety set up before arrival to know what you’re working with.

Pre-Plan For Overstimulation

Water itself can be a calming force of nature, but water activities aren’t always a place of zen. Public pools, water parks and other avenues of water play can be loud, bright and crowded. That with the heat of summer and you may find your child quickly riding the overstimulation train. When sensory overload becomes too much, have a plan in place to deescalate the situation. Some suggestions include:

• Noise-reducing headphones

• A quiet place to take a break

• A timer or countdown routine for transitions

Let ABA Lead The Way

Summer can be such a season of fun, with water a huge source of joy, play and confidence-building for children with autism. With proper planning, clear expectations and safety measures in place, you’re sure to have a summer filled with splashing good times with your child.

At Bloom Behavioral Healthcare, we believe safety and growth go hand in hand. Our goal is to support your family not just in the therapy room, but in real-life situations, too. If you’re looking for support with your child, including implementing consistency, visual schedules, or sensory regulation techniques, ABA therapy may be what you need. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your child thrive this summer and all year long!