Swimming is a fantastic activity that provides countless benefits, from relaxation to physical fitness, and it’s a great way to cool off during the warm summer months. But for individuals with autism, swimming can present unique challenges.

Sensory sensitivities, difficulty with transitions, and challenges with water-related activities like submerging the face can make swimming feel overwhelming.

If you live in or are visiting Kawartha Lakes, you’re in a prime location to take advantage of some of the region’s beautiful lakes and swimming spots. Whether you’re swimming in the clear waters of Sturgeon Lake, relaxing by the shores of Pigeon Lake, or exploring the family-friendly beaches of Lindsay’s Victoria Park, there’s no shortage of wonderful places to enjoy the water.

With a little planning and the right strategies, swimming can be a fun and enjoyable experience for individuals with autism. Here are some tips to help make swimming and enjoying the water more comfortable and accessible for everyone.

1. Prepare for Sensory Sensitivities

Water, especially when it’s cold or unexpectedly splashing, can be a sensory challenge for many people with autism. The sounds of water, the feel of it on the skin, and even the smell of chlorine can sometimes feel overwhelming.

Here’s how to prepare:

Gradual introduction: Start slow, especially if the person is new to swimming or has trouble adjusting to water. Begin by sitting by the shore or dipping toes into the water to let them acclimate before fully entering.
Noise-canceling headphones: If your loved one is sensitive to loud noises, consider noise-canceling headphones or earplugs. Many lakes in Kawartha Lakes, such as Balsam Lake, can get quite busy with boaters and swimmers, so headphones can help reduce the noise.
Sunglasses or hats: If the sunlight is too bright, a hat with a wide brim or sunglasses can help reduce visual overstimulation while swimming or sitting by the water.

2. Ensure a Comfortable Environment

The environment plays a big role in how comfortable someone will feel while swimming. Kawartha Lakes has plenty of beautiful spots, but it’s important to ensure that the environment works for the person you’re caring for, especially if they have specific sensory needs.

Consider these factors:

Choose quiet areas: Some of Kawartha Lakes’ swimming spots, like Victoria Park or the beaches around Lindsay, can be quieter and less crowded, making them ideal for someone who might feel overwhelmed in larger crowds.
Temperature preferences: Water temperature can be a big factor—some individuals with autism are highly sensitive to temperature changes. Test the water beforehand and consider starting with smaller lakes, such as Balsam Lake, where the water tends to be warmer, especially early in the summer.

3. Make Water Play Fun and Familiar

For many individuals with autism, a familiar routine or activity can help reduce anxiety and increase enjoyment. When swimming, focus on making the experience fun and predictable, and introduce water-related activities that they find comforting or exciting.

Here are some ideas:

Sensory-friendly toys: Bring along sensory-friendly toys like floating balls, squirt toys, or colorful noodles. Kawartha Lakes offers a variety of calm lakes where these activities can feel more enjoyable, especially in quiet spots.
Familiar routines: Establish a swimming routine that includes consistent activities, such as splashing around, floating on a raft, or simply wading in the shallow water. Familiarity can help build comfort and confidence.
Encourage gradual exploration: If your loved one struggles with the sensation of water on their face, encourage them to explore water play in a way that feels safe to them—like splashing water gently on their hands or feet or using water toys to keep them engaged.

4. Safety First: Always Stay Close

Safety is crucial when swimming with anyone, especially individuals with autism who may have difficulty with boundaries, transitions, or understanding the full scope of the activity. Kawartha Lakes’ lakes offer a variety of swimming locations, from shallow beaches to deeper areas, so it’s essential to stay close and keep an eye on your loved one at all times.

Here’s how to ensure safety:

Constant supervision: Always stay within arm’s reach when swimming in deeper water, even if the person is comfortable in the shallow areas. Most public beaches in Kawartha Lakes, like those in Victoria Park, have lifeguards on duty during peak times, but it’s still essential to stay close.
Safety equipment: Use floatation devices like life jackets or floaties if needed. Even if your loved one is a strong swimmer, a life jacket can provide an extra sense of security.
Know the swimming areas: Familiarize yourself with the swimming areas. Kawartha Lakes has several safe, designated swimming zones, like the ones at Sturgeon Lake and Pigeon Lake, where water quality and safety measures are consistently monitored.

5. Use Visual Aids and Clear Expectations

Many individuals with autism thrive on routines and clear expectations. When it comes to swimming, let them know what will happen next and what to expect from the experience.

Here’s how to help with transitions:

Visual schedules: If your loved one benefits from visual schedules, create one for the swimming outing. You can include pictures or symbols to represent different parts of the experience, such as “getting ready,” “dipping feet in,” “floating,” and “going home.”
Clear explanations: Use clear, simple language to explain what will happen. For example, “We will swim for 10 minutes, then take a break to rest and have a snack.” This can help reduce anxiety and increase comfort during transitions.
Countdowns: If your loved one struggles with transitions, set a timer or give a verbal countdown to signal the end of a swimming session or the start of a break.

6. Take Breaks and Hydrate

Swimming can be tiring, especially if you’re spending a lot of time in the water. Be sure to take breaks regularly and hydrate to keep energy levels up.

Here’s how to incorporate breaks:

Resting spots: Find a quiet place near the water to take breaks. Kawartha Lakes offers many serene spots, such as the beaches at Lindsay or Emily Provincial Park, where you can rest and enjoy the scenery.
Hydration and snacks: Keep water and snacks on hand to keep your loved one energized and hydrated. Avoid letting them stay too long in the sun without a break, as heat sensitivity can also be a factor.
Bring a towel and blanket: A familiar towel or blanket can help with comfort during breaks, providing a soft place to relax and regroup.

7. Celebrate Successes

Swimming can be a huge achievement, and it’s important to celebrate the progress made. Whether your loved one was able to submerge their face for the first time or simply enjoyed splashing around, each milestone is worth celebrating.

Here’s how to reinforce success:

Positive reinforcement: Praise and reward them for their efforts, no matter how big or small. Words of encouragement like, “You did great today!” can go a long way in building confidence.
Rewards: After a successful swim session, reward them with something they enjoy. It could be a favorite treat, a visit to a nearby park, or a fun activity they look forward to.

Swimming in the beautiful lakes of Kawartha Lakes can be a relaxing and enjoyable experience for individuals with autism, especially when you’re prepared with the right strategies and a little extra care. By understanding sensory challenges, creating a comfortable environment, and setting clear expectations, you can ensure a positive, enjoyable swimming experience for your loved one.

Whether you're swimming at Sturgeon Lake, Pigeon Lake, or any of the serene beaches around Lindsay, the natural beauty and calm waters of Kawartha Lakes provide the perfect backdrop for family fun. And with a bit of preparation, swimming can become a joyful activity that everyone can enjoy.

7 Tips for Swimming with Autism