Autistic children drown at alarming rates - swim lessons and water safety strategies can save their lives

Water activities provide a refreshing escape from the heat, but without proper safety precautions, they can be a source of danger for autistic kids.

By: Tana Carson, Florida International University and Tania Santiago Perez, Florida International University, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: July 17, 2026

Words: 1,388

Last Updated: 2 days, 9 hours ago


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By Tana Carson, Florida International University and Tania Santiago Perez, Florida International University

During roasting-hot summer days, more and more people make their way to swimming pools, lakes, rivers and other spots where they can access water to stay cool.

But while water activities provide a refreshing escape from the heat, they can also be a source of danger. In the U.S., drowning is a leading cause of accidental death for children. More …