Why Water Safety Matters: Reducing Drowning Risks for People with Autism

The Hidden Risk

Drowning is the leading cause of death for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) after age 1. In fact, studies show that children with autism are 160 times more likely to drown than their neurotypical peers.

The reason isn’t simply a lack of swim lessons — it’s a complex combination of factors: sensory processing differences, impulsivity, elopement behavior, and a strong attraction to water. Water can be calming and captivating for children with autism — and that fascination can quickly become dangerous without the right support in place.

Typical Lessons Often Miss the Mark

Typical swim classes are often overstimulating and fast-paced, relying on group instruction and verbal cues that may not be effective for all learners. Children who are non-speaking, have sensory aversions, or need a slower pace often struggle to keep up — or worse, get labeled as "uncooperative."

Many parents find themselves left out of swim programs entirely or forced into unsafe environments where their child’s needs aren’t understood.

The Role of Adaptive Swim Sessions

Adaptive swim sessions like those offered at The Play Pool are tailored to each child’s sensory, communication, and motor needs. We offer:

• One-on-one attention from professionals who understand neurodivergence.

• Flexible, play-based methods rooted in regulation, not pressure.

• A trauma-informed, nonjudgmental approach for even the most fearful or impulsive swimmers.

• Realistic goals centered on safety, comfort, and joyful exploration of the water.

This isn’t about rushing to “swim strokes” — it’s about helping children form a trusting, safe relationship with water.

Success Beyond the Pool

We’ve worked with children who were terrified of baths, had never stepped foot in a pool, or who had a history of unsafe behavior near water. With patience, regulation-based strategies, and engaging aquatic environments, we’ve helped these children not only learn water safety — but enjoy it.

One young swimmer went from water avoidance to joyful swimming and even began requesting baths after a few sessions. Another teen who previously displayed aggressive behavior found such peace in the pool that he later competed in the Special Olympics.

Join The Mission

Every adaptive session is a step toward lowering the alarming statistics. Our dream at The Play Pool is not just to create smiles in the water — but to reduce drowning rates for children with disabilities through compassion, education, and access.

Water safety is not optional. It’s essential. And it should be accessible to every child — especially those who need it most.

Additional Resources:

The National Drowning Prevention Alliance reports on the increased risk of drowning for kids on the Autism Spectrum. See Drowning Prevention Tips Below:

https://ndpa.org/autism-awareness-and-drowning-prevention/