The Autism Society of Central Virginia (ASCV) is proud to host the first ever “iCan Swim Program” in Richmond, in collaboration with iCan Shine and NOVA of Virginia Aquatics. From August 5-9, the program hosts 30 individuals for the 5-day program designed to help individuals with disabilities learn valuable water safety skills and work toward their unique aquatic goals. The program is the first-of-its-kind hosted in Richmond, VA, and one of few in the nation capable of providing this inclusive learning opportunity to participants of all ages. The ASCV is very grateful for the support of many generous donors to make the program possible, including Step Into Swim and the Richmond Marriott.
Participants will attend a 45-minute or 60-minute session held at the same time each day, where they will focus on learning new swim skills, improving existing skills, and acquiring water safety skills relevant for both in and around aquatic environments. Sessions will be divided by age and participants will be paired with a buddy who will provide 1:1 support throughout the session. The program is hosted at NOVA of Virginia Aquatics located at 100 NOVA Way Richmond VA 23229.
Learning to swim is a valuable life skill that opens up opportunities for recreational activities and participation in water-based sports. It empowers autistic individuals to engage in water-related activities safely and confidently throughout their lives. Many individuals with autism have sensory processing differences, and swimming provides a unique sensory experience that can be both calming and stimulating. The water’s resistance and pressure can provide sensory input that helps regulate their sensory systems.
Swimming can have numerous physical, social, and psychological benefits for individuals with autism, making it an important skill for them to learn. It is essential to ensure that swimming lessons are tailored to meet their individual needs and preferences, taking into account any sensory sensitivities or communication challenges they may have.
Parent of a participant, Graham Johnson shares, “We are so excited for the I Can Swim program’s partnership. Our daughter absolutely loves the water, but as a child with ASD, she has struggled to learn to swim. We know swimming is an essential life skill, and this program provides specialized training for kids who learn differently and need more patience from their swim instructors. With this wonderful team, our daughter gets the one-on-one attention she needs and can’t get enough time in the water!”
Ann Flippin, Executive Director of the ASCV, shares, “We are thrilled to bring this invaluable program to Richmond for the first time, in partnership with NOVA of Virginia Aquatics. Our goal is to create an inclusive, safe, and adaptive structure in which individuals can learn this important life skill that enhances safety, provides sensory integration, and promotes physical exercise. We are proud to be the first organization to bring this type of program to Central Virginia and we look forward to seeing the benefits it provides to our local autism community.”