Article Summary
Children with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are at a higher risk of wandering from safe places, which can lead to tragic consequences such as accidental drowning. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, 49% of parents of children with ASDs report that their children wander away from safe places, and 24% of children who wandered were in danger of drowning. From 2009 to 2011, accidental drowning accounted for 91% of total U.S. deaths in children with ASDs ages 14 years and younger (AOTA, 2018). It also highlights the potential benefits of programs like the Sensory Supported Swimming (SSS) program in improving the well-being of children with ASDs.
The article suggests that the SSS program, which promotes engagement in physical activity within a supported environment, can help improve the mental health and well-being of children with ASDs. Parent surveys indicate that children who participated in the SSS program slept better, ate better, and were calmer (AOTA, 2018). Parents also reported that their children were safer in and around water, increasing their confidence to swim as a family activity.
Insights Gained from the Article
The information also provides tips for first-responder education on autism. It suggests using basic terminology and gradually adding more in-depth knowledge as the class progresses (AOTA, 2018). It recommends covering topics such as the history and characteristics of autism, sensory processing, and sensory processing disorder, current events involving individuals with ASDs, statistics about autism, challenges faced by first responders, and how to approach someone with ASD during a crisis.
Application of Knowledge in Clinical Practice
The text from this article can contribute to my OT knowledge by providing insights into the risks and challenges faced by children with ASDs, particularly regarding wandering and water safety. In clinical practice, this information can be used to educate parents and caregivers about the risks of wandering and the importance of water safety for children with ASD (AOTA, 2018). Activities and strategies can be incorporated to promote sensory processing and provide support for children with ASDs during crises.
Questions Arising from the Article
After reading this article, I have some questions about the specific strategies and interventions used in the SSS program to promote water safety and improve the well-being of children with ASDs. It is interesting to learn more about the challenges faced by first responders when interacting with individuals with ASDs and how these challenges can be addressed and overcome.
Reference
AOTA. (2018). Staying in Sight: Addressing Children’s Mental Health and Safety.