top of page
Search

🏊🏾‍♂️ Splash into Inclusion: Preparing for a Safe & Successful Swim Day!

We know that swimming is more than just a summer hobby—it’s a high-standard form of therapy and sensory joy. 🏆🌊 Whether it’s for physical fitness, Sensory Regulation, or community connection, getting in the water is a huge "Win" for our clients!

🛡️ Preparing for a Safe & Successful Swim Day:

For a Person of Worth with IDD or autism, the transition from land to water requires professional preparation and Social Scaffolding. Here is how we ensure every splash is a safe one:

  • 🛡️ "Where there’s water, I will wait!" Teach your loved one that they must wait for adult approval and a specific visual signal (like a "thumbs up") before entering the pool area. Consistency is key!

  • 🦺 The Right Fit: Always use a properly fitted Type 1 or Type 2 life jacket. These are designed to roll an unconscious person onto their back, providing a high standard of clinical safety.

  • đź‘‚ Sensory Acclimation: Before diving in, expose your loved one to the feel of the water without a flotation device in a shallow, controlled area. This helps them understand their natural buoyancy and reduces overstimulation.

  • đź©ş Vigilant Observation: Drowning is often silent. Always maintain high-standard clinical vigilance by keeping "eyes on" at all times. If you need a break, use a "handoff" where another adult clearly acknowledges they are taking over watch.


đź“Ť Welcoming & Accessible Pools in the Philly Area:

Looking for a sensory-friendly or accessible place to swim? Philadelphia offers several high-standard options:

  1. Variety Club Camp & Developmental Center (Worcester, PA): Features a 99,000-gallon outdoor pool that is completely accessible and designed specifically for children and youth with disabilities.

  2. Greater Philadelphia YMCA: Multiple locations (including Willow Grove, Roxborough, and Northeast Family YMCA) offer Accessible Swim programs with specialized equipment like pool lifts.

  3. Philadelphia Parks & Rec Outdoor Pools: Over 10 city pools, including Kelly Pool (Fairmount Park) and Pleasant Pool (Mt. Airy), are equipped with pool lifts to ensure everyone can enjoy the water.

  4. Carousel House (Fairmount Park): While currently under a $44 million expansion, this center remains the city’s heart for inclusive recreation and is expected to feature state-of-the-art accessible pools upon reopening!


đź’ˇ The Harrell Assisted Living Homes Philosophy:

"True Independence means removing the barriers between our clients and the experiences they love. Safety is the scaffolding that makes that possible."

🚀 Dive Into Summer With Us!

  1. DSPs: What's your favorite water activity to do with your clients? Share your swim-day wins!

  2. Visit our website to see how we incorporate community recreation into our high-standard care plans.

  3. Comment Below: Are you visiting a community pool this weekend? Let us know which one is your favorite!


Comments

bottom of page