Adaptive Aquatics Program
Heather Clare OTR/L – Director of Specialized Programs
Swimming uses all the major muscle groups, and is a demanding aerobic exercise that helps to keep the heart and lungs healthy. Swimming also helps to keep the joints flexible, especially in the neck, shoulders, and hips as the limbs and body move through the water. The Carousel Swim Club meets once at week at the Culver Palms YMCA. Our swimming coach, Heather Clare, is an occupational therapist with over 10 years of experience instructing children with special needs in swimming lessons and aquatic sports. Our weekly routine allows children to gradually transition from a beginner to an advanced level at their own pace. Our coach ensures that all children and staff practice water safety throughout each 45 minute lesson, while encouraging children to practice their swimming skills. The aquatic educators use positive behavior interventions both in and out of the water. Children who are less experienced or skilled in the water are supported with a higher staff to child ratio.
What skills do children learn in the Adapted Aquatics Program?
- Introduction to water safety
- How to float independently and with a device
- How to hold their breath and control breathing
- Kicking
- Basic paddling
- Front crawl
- Back stroke
- Jumping in
- Diving in
- How to be a team player in the water
- Participation in water sports
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