Summer brings sunshine, vacations, pool days, beach trips, and countless opportunities to enjoy the water. While these activities can be exciting for families, they also require extra attention when caring for children with autism.
Research has shown that children with autism are at a higher risk of drowning than their neurotypical peers. Many children on the autism spectrum are naturally drawn to water, while others may wander unexpectedly or have difficulty recognizing dangerous situations. Understanding these risks and taking proactive safety measures can help families enjoy a safe and memorable summer.
Why Water Safety Is So Important
Water can be calming, fun, and highly motivating for many children with autism. The movement, sound, and sensory experience of water can be especially appealing. However, children may not recognize hazards such as deep water, strong currents, or the need for adult supervision.
Some children may also:
- Wander toward pools, lakes, or ponds without understanding the danger
- Have difficulty responding when their name is called
- Be unable to communicate that they are in trouble
- Panic in unfamiliar situations, or become overwhelmed by crowds and noise
Because drowning can happen quickly and quietly, close supervision is always essential.
Never Rely on One Layer of Protection
The best approach to water safety is using multiple layers of protection. These include:
- Constant, attentive adult supervision
- Four-sided fencing with self-closing, self-latching gates around home pools
- Locked doors and alarms that alert caregivers if a child exits the home
- Life jackets approved by the U.S. Coast Guard when boating or near open water
- Learning water safety skills as early as possible
Each layer helps reduce risk, but none replaces active adult supervision.
Teach Swimming Early
Swimming is an important life skill for every child. While swim lessons do not eliminate the risk of drowning, they can significantly improve water safety and confidence.
When choosing swim lessons, look for instructors who have experience working with children with autism or who offer adaptive swimming programs. Lessons that are individualized and paced according to your child’s needs often lead to the greatest success.
Prepare Before Visiting the Pool or Beach
Children with autism often benefit from knowing what to expect. Before heading to the water:
- Show pictures or videos of the location
- Review safety rules using simple language or visual supports
- Practice staying with an adult
- Explain what will happen during the visit
- Bring familiar comfort items, snacks, and sensory supports
Preparing ahead of time can help reduce anxiety and increase cooperation. Our summer travel guide covers the same groundwork for trips further from home.
Assign a “Water Watcher”
When several adults are together, it’s easy to assume someone else is watching the children. Instead, assign one adult to be the designated Water Watcher.
The Water Watcher’s only job is supervising the child in or near the water — without distractions from phones, conversations, or other activities. Rotate this responsibility as needed so supervision remains consistent.
Prepare for Sensory Needs
Busy pools and beaches can be overwhelming. Loud noises, crowded spaces, bright sunlight, and unexpected splashing may increase anxiety for some children. Helpful items may include:
- Sunglasses or a hat
- Rash guards or preferred swim clothing
- Noise-reducing headphones when appropriate
- Favorite sensory toys for breaks
- Plenty of water and preferred snacks
Planning for sensory needs can make outings more enjoyable for everyone.
Teach Safety Skills Beyond Swimming
Water safety includes much more than learning to swim. Families can also practice:
- Stopping when an adult says “Stop”
- Responding when their name is called
- Waiting before entering the water
- Asking permission before approaching pools, lakes, or beaches
- Identifying trusted adults if they become separated
These skills can be practiced throughout the year during everyday routines.
How ABA Can Help
Applied Behavior Analysis can support families by teaching many of the skills that improve water safety. BCBAs and RBTs can help children learn to follow safety directions, respond to their name, stay close to caregivers, tolerate safety equipment such as life jackets, and practice waiting before entering the water. ABA can also help families create individualized safety plans based on each child’s unique strengths, needs, and goals.
Enjoy a Safe Summer
Summer should be filled with fun, laughter, and family memories. By preparing ahead, maintaining close supervision, and teaching important safety skills, families can reduce risks and feel more confident around water.
At Crossroads ABA Center, we are committed to helping children build meaningful life skills that support independence, confidence, and safety. We encourage every family to make water safety a priority — not just during the summer, but all year long.