Safe Swim Academy

Partners collaborate for drowning prevention program

The Newaygo County Autism Community recently partnered with the Fremont Community Recreation Center to present the Safe Swim Academy. This program, funded by an Amazing X Grant from the Fremont Area Community Foundation, provides swimming and water safety instruction for Newaygo County residents living with autism.

According to the Red Cross (April 2023), drowning is the number one cause of death among children and adults with autism. Children with autism are 160 times more likely to experience fatal and non-fatal drownings than their peers. Studies show that people with autism have a natural affinity with water and drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for children with autism. With 121 lakes and countless other bodies of water in Newaygo County,  the Safe Swim Academy addresses this extremely important safety issue for our autistic population and their families.

Dana Simon, who is a special education teacher who is also a highly qualified swimming and water safety instructor, provided lessons for 11 autistic students ranging in age from 4 to 16 years of age. After an initial assessment, Dana was able to program for each student’s individual needs, taking into consideration prior swimming experience, general levels of anxiety, communication ability, sensory concerns, and overall comfort in the water. Each student made individual and unique progress in 10 sessions throughout a 4 week period in June and July. 

The Newaygo County Autism Community provides support to Newaygo County residents and families living with autism. Find them on Facebook or newaygocountyautismcommunity.org

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