Two Swimmers, Two Worlds: Navigating Autism and the Quest for Swimming Skills

It's intriguing how two individuals from the same family can have entirely different experiences, even in shared passions like swimming. My two children, both on the autism spectrum, show this contrast vividly through their unique swimming journeys. The paths they take to feel comfortable in the water are rich with lessons and stories.

My daughter has always been a natural around water. From her first splash, she was captivated. But her endless energy and tendency to wander made finding the right swimming school a challenge. We tried multiple lessons where she couldn't focus and often got in trouble for what we called her “playful behavior.” It felt overwhelming some weeks. However, her passion for the water was clear, and I was determined to help her thrive.

My son's story was much tougher. Group lessons were unbearable when he was younger. Now at six, small groups with just four kids are manageable for him, but it took years of effort to get there. Initially, one-on-one lessons were our only option, and those could still be tough. We tried a specialised program like Rainbow Club, which focuses on children with disabilities, but that didn’t click either. He was eager to dive under the water, which was a daunting thought when he couldn't even float safely. Over time, I realised he needed to mature to grasp the importance of safety while enjoying the water.

The need for a safe swimming environment was heightened by the fact that neither child showed any fear of water. Their enjoyment was so high that swimming lessons became essential, not just for fun, but also for safety.

Watching their different approaches to swimming has opened my eyes to the many ways autism can show up. My daughter loves to play freely in the water, often losing focus, while my son’s relationship with the water revolves around sensory experiences and the need for control.

This variety highlights the individual needs in teaching swimming to children on the autism spectrum. For my daughter, a structured yet adaptable learning environment was essential. We incorporated short skill practice sessions followed by time for free play. This approach allowed her to balance her love of water with the skills she needed for safety. We also used visual aids like videos of swim strokes, which helped decrease her anxiety and keep her focus.

For my son, the tactile experience of the water was key. Every lesson started with playful exploration—splashing and floating were crucial first steps. We delayed traditional stroke techniques, emphasising building a trusting relationship with his instructor. Understanding how to breathe in and out while swimming was essential for both children. Gradually, they built the safety skills necessary for their natural love of the water.

Setbacks were a part of this journey. At times, both of them would feel overwhelmed by the noise and chaos at the pool so choosing a time where the pool was not too busy was critical.

However, we learned to celebrate every small success to keep their motivation alive. When my daughter mastered a new stroke, a fun water play session was our way of celebrating. For my son, just ten seconds of floating without help resulted in a reward—a game he loved in the water.

It's crucial for children on the autism spectrum to develop a love for swimming beyond just learning skills. Swimming offers great opportunities for sensory processing and physical activity. Throughout this journey, I’ve learned the value of patience and careful observation. Distinguishing between excitement, anxiety, and sensory overload became part of our routine. The lessons from their experiences have not only shaped our approach to swimming but have also taught me valuable lessons as a parent.

Now, as they become more independent in their swimming skills, I am reminded of how their journeys reflect the diversity within the autism spectrum. My daughter’s enjoyment of structured play and my son’s focus on tactile exploration can both thrive and enhance their experiences.

As they continue to embrace the swim world, I reflect on the early days filled with uncertainty. While we know new challenges lie ahead, their shared love for the water creates a strong bond.

For any parent of children on the autism spectrum, the journey to swimming can feel both complex and rewarding. It is about finding the right balance, understanding needs, and providing constant encouragement.

Ultimately, regardless of whether my children become swimming stars or just enjoy splashing with friends, what matters most is their comfort in the water—a lesson that extends well beyond merely mastering swimming skills.

This journey emphasizes that every child is unique, each deserving a personalised approach that nurtures their love for swimming while prioritising safety. By creating a supportive environment and practicing patience, you can help guide your child through their swimming adventure.

In the quest for swimming skills, let us all remember that the real joys often lie in celebrating the small victories we achieve along the way.