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The
Montgomery Aquatics Program has added new learn-to-swim programs and water
exercise classes that are designed to accommodate swimmers with special needs
including physical, behavioral, sensory, cognitive, expressive or other
language needs.
According to
Charlie Butler, Therapeutic Recreation Specialist, “We still offer therapeutic
adult swim classes but the adapted aquatics classes are managed by the Aquatics
program and are designed to accommodate participants based on their disability. Also, there is a lower staff to student
ratio”.
Adapted
Aquatics classes are designed to encourage independence in the water as well as
build water and swimming skills. We do need parent/caregiver assistance in
getting the student changed and ready to enter the water promptly at the start
of class. There is usually only one Special Needs changing room so you may need
to come early! Some classes require the parent/caregiver to enter the water and
participate in class.
For more
information see page 21 of the Spring Guide or contact Aquatics at
240-777-6860.
Lessons – Volunteer Assisted (Special Needs Ages 4-15)
Location: Kennedy-Shriver Aquatic Center
Various start dates and times
These learn-to-swim classes are taught in a small
group environment and class size is limited to 8 students. An assigned
volunteer is with each student at all times. An information and release form
must be completed for all students at the first class. Participants are allowed
to be registered for ONLY one class per session.
Lessons - Level 1 (Ages 7-13 with Physical and/or Developmental
Disabilities)
PARENT/CAREGIVER MUST ENTER WATER AND PARTICIPATE IN
THE CLASS.
Locations: Germantown, MLK &
Olney
Various start dates and times
This learn-to-swim program is for youth ages 7-13 with
physical and/or developmental disabilities who do not currently meet the
prerequisites for participating in an inclusive environment. The program is
designed to develop basic swim skills in a structured setting under the
guidance of an instructor with the support of a family member or caregiver in
the water with the student.
Lessons - Level 1 (Ages 14 and Up with Physical and/or
Developmental Disabilities)
PARENT/CAREGIVER MUST ENTER WATER AND PARTICIPATE IN
THE CLASS.
Location: Kennedy-Shriver Aquatic Center
Various start dates and times
This is a learn-to-swim program for individuals with
physical and/or developmental disabilities. This success-oriented program
targets individuals who do not currently meet the prerequisites for
participating in an inclusive environment. The program is designed to develop
basic swim skills in a structured setting under the guidance of an instructor
with the support of a family member or caregiver in the water with the student.
Water Exercise Adaptive
(Ages 14 and Up with Physical and/or Developmental Disabilities)
PARTICIPANTS MUST BE ACCOMPANIED IN THE WATER BY A
CAREGIVER AND IN ARMS REACH AT ALL TIMES.
Locations: Germantown, Kennedy-Shriver and MLK
Various start dates and times
This is an exercise program for individuals with
physical and/ or developmental disabilities that is conducted at a slow pace
and in the shallow water. This course will allow the participant the opportunity
to enjoy exercise in the water using balls and noodles to encourage movement
and support. Emphasis is on fun and improving cardiovascular conditioning.
