Florida Allocates Funding for Swim Lessons for Children with Autism

Why it matters locally: While this initiative is specific to Florida, it may spark discussion among advocacy groups and state agencies in North Carolina regarding similar preventative measures for children with autism.

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Florida has committed state funds to provide swim lessons specifically for children with autism. This program responds to statistics indicating that children with autism face a significantly higher risk of drowning compared to other children. The initiative will facilitate access to aquatic safety education for this population. Garland Jones, a recreational therapist and senior program director for the YMCA of South Florida's special needs program, teaches water safety techniques. In one instance, Jones instructed Mackenzie Wesley, 5, on breathing safely in water, utilizing a ping-pong ball as a visual aid. Estimates suggest that children with autism are 160 times more likely to drown than other children. The state's funding allocation prioritizes these lessons as a preventative measure.