Water safety for children with autism

Water can be so much fun, but accidents can happen in seconds. Children with autism often love water because the reflection and movement of the water is so enticing. However, they can also struggle to understand why it’s dangerous. Understanding water safety for children with autism and teaching your child is important to keep you safe when you’re out together.

Review pool safety

Talk to your child about what a swimming pool is and why it can be dangerous. Make sure they understand that a child should never go near a pool or other body of water like a lake or the sea without an adult present. You should also go over how your child can let you know that they’d like to swim or go near water.

Help your child get used to the pool

Social stories are a great way to help your child with autism learn about the rules of a swimming pool and become familiar with it. If your child is anxious about the water, start with visits to the poolside without getting in the water at all. Stick your toes in the water if your child is willing and have fun dangling your feet by the water’s edge.

This is also the perfect opportunity to set rules for your child for playing around and in water.