A Community Based, Learn to Swim & Water Safety Program

This needs assessment highlights the demand for inclusive learn-to-swim and water safety programs, citing autism-related drowning risks and four barriers: access, instructor knowledge, cost, and pool space.

Assess adaptive water safety programming for children with autism, showing Learn to Swim interventions improve swim skills and indicate that eight to sixteen hours drive gains and parental safety perceptions.

Develop an evidence-based, inclusive learn-to-swim curriculum for children aged six months to three years, with a developmentally based approach and collaboration, promoting lifelong learning.

Demonstrates professionalism, ethical behavior, and advocacy to influence positive change with clients, communities, and the Learn to Swim profession through nonprofit development, fundraising, social media content, and adaptive inclusive programming.

Educates caregivers and children on water safety, routines, and family involvement to ensure carryover of swim skills, even without pool access. Offers home activities and handouts for age-based progressions.

Develop a community-based learn-to-swim and water safety pilot for caregivers and children aged six months to three years, detailing an eight-week lesson plan, caregiver education, and occupational therapy fieldwork.

Thank mentor Mike for guiding the adaptive learn-to-swim program during a 14-week journey, thank the Sisters of the Presentation in Dubuque for pool access, and thank Dr. Yourish and classmates.

Present the references and research used to complete this doctoral capstone, outlining the sources that supported the program's development.