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Participate in a Study

Help prevent drowning by joining a pilot trial comparing types of swimming lessons.

woman swimming with child

Testing Effects of Swim Instruction on Autistic Children's Swimming and Water Safety Skills

Investigators: Lisa Mische Lawson, Lauren Ptomey, Lauren Foster


Purpose

Children with autism drown at a rate 160 times higher than other children. Swimming instruction can prevent drowning, but standard lessons may not support challenges related to autism. Swim lessons tailored to children with autism may be beneficial.

The purpose of this randomized-controlled pilot trial is to compare Sensory Enhanced Aquatics to standard swimming lessons and explore child, parent and instructor perspectives about instructional methods most effective for teaching swimming and water safety to children with autism.


Eligibility

This study is looking for children ages 5-9 with autism spectrum disorder. Parents will complete a demographic form questionnaire about their child’s autism symptoms to determine if children are eligible.


What will participants be asked to do in this study?

There will be 18 total visits: two for swim tests and 16 swim lessons of 30 minutes each. The program will last up to three months total.

First, children will complete a motor test and swim test at a community pool. Then they will enroll in and complete standard or adapted swim lessons.

After completion of the swim lessons, children will complete a second swim test and be invited to complete an interview about their experience.

Compensation is available for participants in this study.

Thank you for your interest. The study is currently full. Please check back later for more opportunities.

KU School of Health Professions

University of Kansas Medical Center
Department of Occupational Therapy Education
3901 Rainbow Blvd  MS2003
Kansas City, KS 66160
913-588-7195 • 711 TTY