Water Safety
Children with autism are at increase risk around water due to wandering tendencies and environmental awareness differences. Drowning remains a leading cause of accidental death for children. Prevention requires education. vigilance, and access to resources.
Family Support and Practical Resources
Water Safety Tips for Families
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Always maintain visual supervision near water
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Install alarms and secure barriers
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Enroll children in adaptive swim lessons
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Communicate safety plans with caregivers
Community Responsibility
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Apartment complexes and HOAs must secure open water areas
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First responders should understand neurodivergent wandering behaviors
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Schools and camps should implement water safety education
Swim Lesson Scholarship
In partnership with Mayerson JCC, The Joshua Al-Lateef Jr. Foundation offers private swim lesson scholarships for neurodivergent children. These lessons provide a safe, supportive, and confidence-building environment focused on water safety. https://mayersonjcc.org/joshua-al-lateef-jr-swim-lesson-scholarship/
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"Calm water starts with preparation"
"Protect autistic lives. Teach them to swim"