It might seem a right of passage that every Australian should learn to swim. It is not necessarily part of life’s equation for autistic individuals. Aquatic centres can be a source of sensory overload. This is due to a combination of excessive noise, unfamiliar location, new people and people within close proximity. Different Journeys and Windy Hill have come together. It is adaptive swimming events for the greater good with their Autism swim programs and Family Swim Nights. Adding to the list of inclusive events hosted by Different Journeys.
Autistic led swimming programs arrive at Windy Hill.
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The first family swim night was held Saturday 27th November. Windy Hill Fitness Centre was open exclusively for the autism community. The Next event will be in Knox on December 5th.
Family Swim Night is one of many activities Different Journeys Autism co-ordinates. The aim is to empower Autistic children, teens, adults and their families to live a life of inclusion. According to Different Journeys Autism Co-Founder, Mel Spencer
“there are many obstacles that prevent Autistic people from learning to swim. Simply trying to get in the water can be a challenge for some people. While others find new faces and spaces overwhelming.
Statistics recently released by Autism Swim indicate that children living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are 160 times more likely to drown than their neurotypical peers. Therefore, events like Family Swim Night could provide life-saving tools and skills for the autistic community, their families and carers. And for the Centre’s staff and management, they gain a better understanding of how to move forward with adaptive swimming options.
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By having sole access to Windy Hill Fitness’ aquatic facilities, we have the ability to leisurely introduce our families to an aquatic scenario. Families can also meet instructors in a trusted and controlled sensory environment. The night is about inclusion. It is not only those with Autism set to receive the benefits from the night. Siblings, parents and carers will also have the opportunity to enjoy family time in a relaxed atmosphere. They will be able to connect with other families in a safe and supportive environment.” continued Spencer.
Family Swim nights will become a permanent fixture at Windy Hill
Windy Hill will host Family Swim Nights once a month starting November 27th. The aim is to gradually expose autistic people to all aspects of the aquatic environment. The introduction process commences ahead of event day with communication via visual support – a photographic storybook presenting photos of the pool area, swim instructors and lifeguards to attendees.
For Autistic people having structure, and familiarity can provide a better understanding of a new situation. This slow and steady pace may also lessen anxiety. It offers a positive routine leading to potential participation in regular learn-to-swim classes or simply enjoy the facilities.
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Find us on the night cooking up a storm.
Kids on the Spectrum – The Australian autism directory will also be volunteering on the night. You will find founder and director, Anita Aherne and the Kids on the Spectrum staff cooking the BBQ for hungry participants after their swim.
CEO for Bluefit Group the facility management company, Todd McHardy praised everyone’s support of the program. Our team at Windy Hill Fitness Centre has been honoured to be part of this meaningful initiative. It brings happiness to many families and inspires community activity which is what we’re all about.
The event costs $10 per person and is open to all ages and includes a BBQ dinner.
To register online and to locate other autism swim nights hosted by Different Journeys in your area head to: www.differentjourneysautism.com/new-events/
For event enquiries visit: differentjourneys@gmail.com
Tickets may be claimed via your NDIS funds. We recommend you speak to your plan manager or LAC.
