Indiana Family to Family

The National Autism Association lists these YMCA sites as resources for specialized swim instruction: You can find the list here: http://nationalautismassociation.org/resources/autism-safety-facts/swimming-instructions/ ASI also has a list here: http://www.autismsocietyofindiana.org/adaptive-swim-lessons/

from Autism Speaks: Water safety is especially critical for children and adults with autism, as many individuals on the spectrum are drawn to water, some of whom are unable to understand the dangers associated with it. Tragically, the leading cause of death among individuals with autism after wandering is drowning.  Autism Speaks has put together some tips to help keep your child safe around water. 1. Start Early It is never too early to start teaching your child the importance of water safety. Expose your child to water at a young age so he or she can become comfortable around it. Use visuals like picture cards or social stories to teach rules related to water and maximize learning. Be on the lookout for a tendency toward or special interest in water.  You can personalize a story about water safety from Twigtales  here . 2. Sign Up for Swim Lessons The most obvious way to help prevent tragedy around water is to teach your child to swim. Many organizations offer lessons

·       New Release! Family Voices Immigration Toolkit Developed by Family Voices,  this toolkit  includes documents designed to   inform, empower, and assist families of children and youth with special health care needs (CYSHCN) and the professionals who support them.  Documents assist in the preparation of a possible emergent immigration situation by accurately reflecting the hardship on the health and well-being of a child with special health care needs if they or their caregiver is detained and removed.  The resources included in the toolkit geared towards families are currently available in English and Spanish. Resources are also available to support physicians speaking with patients and family/caregivers about immigration status in a sensitive manner.