In early April, a swim school in Florida called Small Fish Big Fish began offering a new program for children with autism. The swimming pool had colorful decorations, and trained instructors helped each child carefully. The goal was not just fun. It was made to help stop a serious problem. Since 2021, over 100 children with autism or under testing have drowned in Florida. According to the Children’s Services Council of Palm Beach County, autism is a developmental condition. It affects how children speak and behave. It also increases the chance of children wandering and avoiding danger. Because of this, learning how to be safe in water has become essential for families and schools.

To help reduce the risk, the council gave money to support swimming classes and teacher training. The classes use pictures, slow steps, and calm teachers. Some children were scared at first but later made clear progress. A health expert from Columbia University, Dr. Guohua Li, shared that swimming lessons are an important strategy for children with autism. Even children with strong challenges can often learn safety skills in a short time. Programs from the Autism Society and Autism Swim are now helping more teachers around the world. These lessons may not only teach swimming—they may help prevent accidents and support families with special needs in a meaningful and effective way.