Splashing into Inclusion: A Guide to Adapted Aquatics

Blog by Dr. Emily Dow Adaptive Kinesiology Specialist & Water Safety Advocate

As the shimmering waters of the pool glisten under the sun's warm embrace, a world of possibilities unfolds beneath the surface. This is not just any aquatic adventure; this is the realm of Adapted Aquatics. Welcome to a place where buoyancy knows no boundaries, where hydrotherapy meets inclusivity, and where every splash tells a unique story of resilience and determination.

In this watery wonderland, the ins and outs of Adapted Aquatics come together to create an experience unlike any other. It's a world where individuals of all abilities dive headfirst into the deep end of opportunity, where water becomes a soothing therapy, and where limitations are redefined with each stroke. I’ll share with you all the “things” you should look for and ask about when looking for Adapted Aquatics Instructor. I will help you unlock a treasure trove of knowledge that will forever change the way you see the water. So, slip into your swimsuit, grab your goggles, and get ready to make a splash. The world of Adapted Aquatics awaits, and I am here to be your trusted guide on this aquatic odyssey.

There are two things I hear a lot when it relates to Adapted Aquatics.  One is “I had no idea this was a thing!” and the other is “how do I know if someone is a Certified Adapted Aquatics Instructor?”. To begin, Adapted Aquatics refers to a “specialized approach to aquatic activities, swimming, and water-related exercises designed to accommodate individuals with various physical, cognitive, or sensory disabilities. It involves the modification of aquatic environments, teaching methods, and equipment to ensure that people of all abilities can safely and effectively participate in aquatic experiences. Adapted aquatics programs aim to promote physical fitness, water safety, therapeutic benefits, and overall well-being for individuals with disabilities”. *Reference below

What does it signify when someone claims to be a certified adapted aquatics instructor? It indicates that the individual holds a certification from a reputable organization and has completed a comprehensive curriculum that covers diverse ability variances, environmental modifications, specialized teaching techniques, and equipment utilization. These individuals undergo extensive hands-on training, diligently progressing through the curriculum to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills, culminating in the successful completion of a certification examination.

One of the leading organizations specializing in certifying individuals as adapted aquatics instructors is Swim Angelfish, accessible at https://swimangelfish.com/. The organization's founders, Ailene Tisser and Cindy Freedman, both possessed extensive backgrounds in therapy before embarking on their aquatics journey. Ailene, a pediatric Physical Therapist, and Cindy, an occupational therapist and recreational therapist, leveraged their wealth of knowledge and expertise to establish Swim Angelfish. This organization not only trains individuals to become adept adapted aquatic instructors but also offers adapted aquatic lessons at various locations, led by their highly trained professionals.

The top-tier certifying body in the realm of adapted aquatics used to be the Adapted Aquatics Specialty Committee, operating under the umbrella of the American Association for Physical Activity and Recreation (AAPAR) Council for Aquatic Professionals. To embark on the journey of becoming an adapted aquatic instructor, individuals were required to hold a Water Safety Instruction Certification, typically obtained from the American Red Cross.

Regrettably, with the transformation of AAPAR into "SHAPE America," the entire Adapted Aquatics Instructor credential was dissolved. Nevertheless, numerous individuals continue to actively participate in the field of adapted aquatics, as their training and certification had been meticulously thorough and demanding.

To begin your evaluation, the foremost consideration is the individual's certification in Adapted Aquatics. It's crucial to distinguish between Aquatic Therapy and Adapted Aquatics, as they are not synonymous. Aquatic Therapy primarily focuses on therapeutic movements conducted in water, under the supervision of a qualified professional, such as a physical therapist or someone certified in aquatic therapy. In contrast, Adapted Aquatics centers on instructing individuals with diverse ability levels in swimming.

Another vital aspect to inquire about is their program structure. Whether you are engaging with a company or an individual provider, certain components must be included. An effective adapted aquatic program should encompass a comprehensive assessment before commencing lessons, continuous progress evaluations during the lessons, and a concluding assessment at the end of a session. Clearly defined goals and objectives should be established, and these objectives should be discussed with both the swimmer and their parent or caregiver. Additionally, a plan outlining how these objectives will be achieved should be part of the discussion. Regular and active program and service assessments should be conducted, alongside the implementation of specific risk management strategies.

Take a closer look at the environment and facility to ensure accessibility and safety. Verify the presence of at least two points of entry into the pool, such as steps and a chair lift. If you are at a facility, is there a lifeguard on duty and an AED present. Assess the water temperature, ideally falling within the range of 86-89 degrees, with the air temperature feeling warmer than the water. Gauge the noise level to determine if it is excessively loud and distracting. Evaluate the available space in the pool, considering the instructor, participants, equipment, and any assistants. Inquire about the instructor-to-participant ratio, aiming for 1:1 but seeking clarification on the number of instructors or aides present during each lesson if 1:1 isn't feasible. These questions reflect their dedication to creating an inclusive and functional environment accommodating various ability levels.

Lastly, inquire about their commitment to professional development. Ask whether they engage in workshops, seminars, or conferences and how they stay updated on best practices. These inquiries ensure that your chosen instructor possesses the necessary knowledge, capabilities, and relevance to provide a safe and informed service.

Reference:

"Adapted Aquatics." National Center on Health, Physical Activity and Disability (NCHPAD). https://www.nchpad.org/259/1406/Adapted~Aquatics

Lepore, M., Gayle, G.W., & Stevens, S. (2007). Adapted Aquatics Programming: A Professional Guide. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics Publishers.