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Photo Credit: Cynthia Lau

  • Buoyancy of the water allows a child to move in ways he or she may not be able to on land

  • Resistance of the water helps a child to build muscle and endurance when the opportunity may be limited on land

  • Enhances breath control

  • Dynamic sensory environment provides deep pressure and tactile input while dampening sounds underwater

  • Warm water promotes relaxation and stretching of tight muscles

  • Playful quality of the water helps children stay motivated

  • Creates an opportunity for participation in a typical childhood activity

  • Encourages increased social interactions/social communication

  • Develops intrinsic motivation

  • Shallow water creates a sense of comfort for children, parents, and therapists

  • Heated indoor pool allows year-round services for continuity of progress and growth

  • Occupational therapy goals can be addressed in the water to enhance achievement, retention, and carryover to daily activities

  • It's FUN!!

Aquatic Occupational Therapy

Drowning Prevention

  • Drowning rates in the Las Vegas Valley are consistently high

  • Across the United States, drowning is a leading cause of death among children under 5 years old

  • Children with disabilities are more likely to have tragic outcomes than typically developing children 

  • Especially in the autism community

  • Ocean of Change addresses water safety in addition to individual goals

    • Sit on edge before entering pool​

    • Ask 'please' before entering and only when an adult is present

    • Learn safe water entry/exit

    • Initial breath control

  • Simultaneous comfort in the water while respecting the potentially dangerous environment is IMPORTANT!

HH_website pool edge_edited.jpg

Photo Credit: Cynthia Lau

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