Swimming lessons are one of the best ways to prevent drownings. They help children build confidence and learn essential water safety skills, keeping them safer in and around water.
Swimming is not an instinctive skill; humans need to be taught basic water survival techniques.
All adults and children should learn essential swimming skills as early as possible.
Caretakers should understand that children are never “drown proof,” even if they have had swim lessons.
Consult your pediatrician before enrolling children in swimming lessons.
Drowning is the leading cause of death in children with autism. Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are 40 times more likely to drown than their neurotypical peers (American Journal of Public Health). Specifically, children with autism are naturally drawn to the water and have a very high tendency to wander. Parents need to be aware of the significant connection between wandering and drowning. All families need to incorporate multiple layers of protection including; swim lessons, barriers, alarms, life jackets, CPR and rescue procedures.
Participating children are transported to the nearest participating county, municipal, or private provider on a daily school/camp/center field trip for two weeks. Each student will receive up to 10 group swim lessons, each lasting 30 minutes, with a maximum instructor-to-student ratio of one to six. All lessons utilize American Red Cross-certified curriculum.
By offering free transportation and lessons during the day, the program greatly increases access to water safety. Please contact your school, camps or center to see if your childs will be participating in the Zero Drownings Miami-Dade program.
Zero Drownings swim providers also provide swim lessons which are available during the summer and after school. Explore local options to find the best fit for your child’s needs and skill level.
