Summer Water Safety Tips for Children on the Spectrum

Summer has arrived in the Bay Area, and with it comes one of many children’s favorite activities: water play.

For many children, including many children on the autism spectrum, swimming and water activities can be enjoyable sensory experiences that support regulation, relaxation, and fun. At the same time, water environments require thoughtful preparation, especially for children who may need additional support with safety skills.

Accidental drowning is a leading cause of injury-related death among children. The risk can be especially important to recognize for children and adults with autism. According to the American Red Cross, drowning is the leading cause of death for children and adults with autism, and people with autism spectrum disorder are nearly 40 times as likely to die from drowning compared to the general population.

Because water can be highly motivating for many children, safety skills can be taught throughout the year. Summer is often an ideal time to increase practice as children spend more time around pools, beaches, lakes, splash pads, and other water settings.

Some children may benefit from additional instruction, individualized supports, or increased supervision around water. A child may not yet recognize water-related risks, communicate a need for help, or consistently respond to safety expectations in these environments.

1. Teach Simple and Functional Safety Instructions

Practice short, clear instructions that can be used across different settings.

Examples:

• “Stop”

• “Come here”

• “Wait”

• “Hold my hand”

Helpful strategies:✓ Use physical prompts and visual supports as needed✓ Reinforce safe responses immediately✓ Practice in calm environments before using skills around water

2. Use Visual Supports and Repetition

Visual supports can make expectations clearer and more predictable.

Ideas include:

• Stop signs or boundary visuals

• Hand-holding reminders

• First/then language for transitions

• Visual water rules

Practice safety skills regularly and across different environments so children can build familiarity and confidence.

3. Teach Clear Boundaries Around Water

Create simple rules that apply across pools, beaches, lakes, and water parks.

Examples:

• Always ask before entering the water

• Swim only when an adult is present

• Stay in designated swim areas

• Wait at the edge until given permission to enter

4. Build Swimming and Water Confidence Gradually

Introduce water experiences at your child’s comfort level. Swimming lessons may be helpful, and many programs offer instruction designed to support children with different learning needs.

Helpful approaches:

• Pair water activities with preferred items or positive experiences

• Prioritize comfort and participation

• Build confidence before focusing on advanced swimming skills

5. Increase Active Supervision and Environmental Supports

Close, active supervision is one of the most important water safety strategies.

Consider:

• Assigning one adult to actively supervise during gatherings

• Avoiding assumptions that someone else is watching

• Using barriers and environmental supports when appropriate

• Reviewing expectations before water activities begin

6. Practice Emergency Response Skills

Children can practice ways to get help during unexpected situations.

Examples:

• “Help”

• “I need mom/dad”

• “I need help getting out”

• Asking an adult before entering water

7. Collaborate With Your Child’s Support Team

Consistency across caregivers, providers, and settings helps children generalize safety skills.

Ways to collaborate:

• Share goals across caregivers and providers

• Choose realistic, meaningful safety targets

• Monitor progress and adjust supports

• Celebrate small improvements over time

Final Thoughts

Water safety looks different for every child and every family.

Small, consistent practice opportunities can help children build confidence and safely enjoy summer activities. Working with your child’s BCBA and support team can help create an individualized approach for a safe, fun, and water-filled summer.

Reference: American Red Cross. Drowning Prevention and Facts.https://www.redcross.org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/types-of-emergencies/water-safety/drowning-prevention-and-facts.html