Sometimes, it’s easier for kids to see what they are supposed to learn instead of hearing the instructor explain it. For that reason, we have created a “splash book” for your child to use if the visual support would be helpful. For each class, the splash book contains pictures of each skill. (Just part of our WOW! customer service!)

For kids with autism or sensory issues, an ordinary swim class — or any other type of group lesson — can be overwhelming. We offer what we call squeeze balls, similar to what is used in many classrooms. That way, when it’s not your child’s turn to swim, he or she can focus on using the squeeze ball to aid in concentration

Our Goldfish Swim School curriculum is something has proven success with our swimmers — and special needs students benefit from that consistency. But sometimes, swimmers with special needs may need things done differently, which is when we pull out our figurative special needs toolbox. We’ll slow down in class when we need to, break down the curriculum and adjust it to help your child have a GOLDEN experience.

It can be difficult for parents of special needs kids to find recreational activities that focus on the child’s ability rather than disability. Our goal at Goldfish Swim School is to NOT isolate kids, which is why we streamline kids who have special needs as much as possible — because all kids should know how to do these five things in the water.

For a parent of a child with special needs, registration at Goldfish Swim School has one added benefit: A parent informational sheet. We’ll ask you to fill out information about your child — including what works and what doesn’t work when interacting with him or her. Our instructors use integrity, compassion and trust with each and every swimmer, and your child’s instructor will go over this informational sheet to learn more about your child to learn how to produce those extraordinary results!

We hand out progress reports quarterly for parents to gauge the progress of their children, and parents of special needs kids have a goal-oriented progress report. This allows parents to write down their goals for their child: Whether it is coming to class without crying, learning to sit on the turtle or another skill.

We care about children. We know that not every child learns the same way, so we’re patient and understanding with ALL of our swimmers. Swimming is an ideal activity for kids, especially those with special needs, because it can also showcase hidden abilities and talents. In our swim lessons for special needs children, we focus on positivity and celebrate accomplishments big and small!

Sometimes kids get sick, or you go on vacation — or it’s just one of those days where leaving the home is not going to happen. That’s OK: We offer 12 make-up classes per year so you don’t have to become frustrated about the possibility of missing a swimming lesson. Just give us a call to let us know your child won’t be in class and you can schedule a make-up class for a different time.

At most, your child’s swim class will have four kids in it. That’s it. This means your child is able to receive individualized attention and not be overwhelmed by a bunch of other kids in the class. Plus, this helps kids improve social skills and have fun while learning a life-saving skill!