Swimming is an extremely popular sport for children with disabilities – a fact that I have witnessed first-hand on many occasions. In particular, I have found it to be a particularly beneficial activity for children with learning difficulties, and many whom I have taught have gone on to become exceptional club – and even national-standard – swimmers.

Those with Down Syndrome, autism, and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), for instance, often find the swimming pool to be a fantastic outlet, and, in turn, it provides, when properly facilitated, a range of cognitive and physical benefits, as well as the opportunity to make new friends and boost confidence.

Plus, provided there is a qualified instructor on hand, swimming is an extremely low-risk activity.

Down Syndrome

Swimming is an extremely effective way of developing motor skills for children with Down Syndrome.

It also provides a great way to stay active and relaxing in the water/water buoyancy can be extremely therapeutic and soothing.

ADHD

Swimming is one of the best ways for children with excessive energy to let off a bit of steam.

As a youngster, Michael Phelps, for example, was diagnosed with ADHD, and we all know what happened to that young man…

In addition, the discipline of swimming can help children focus outside of the pool in the classroom – to the extent that some studies even suggest that swimming may be a possible cure for ADHD.

Autism

Often children with autism struggle with that daunting theater of team sports, such as soccer and basketball.

However swimming is very much an individual pursuit without the stressful pressures of group competition.

What’s more, statistics show that drowning is a very common cause of death for autistic children, so teaching them to swim provides huge safety benefits.

Learn to swim

To find a swimming pool in your local area you can use websites such as iSport, Swimmers Guide or USA Swimming.

Once you’ve located a pool, contact them by telephone or email to enquire about disability-specific lessons for children and/or adults.

If you have any questions or thoughts about the points raised in this article I’d love to hear from you.

Just get in touch via the comments section below!