Teaching an Autistic Child to Stay Afloat

Drowning is the leading cause of death for children with autism. According to the National Autism Association (USA), such incidents lead to the deaths of more than 90% of children with autism under the age of 14 who are outside safe environments. Studies also show that children with autism are 160 times more likely to drown compared to their neurotypical peers. In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have identified drowning as the second leading cause of unintentional death for children aged 1 to 14, with children on the autism spectrum suffering disproportionately. Their impulsive desire to explore often leads them to bodies of water, and the combination of water attraction and reduced awareness of danger increases the risk of fatal accidents.

Risk Factors

1. Sensory Sensitivity and Water Attraction: Many children with autism find water soothing due to its sensory effects but end up in unsafe situations as a result.
2. Delayed Communication Skills: Issues with verbal communication can prevent them from calling for help if they find themselves in danger.
3. Lack of Awareness of Safety: Many children with autism struggle to recognize potential dangers, such as deep or fast-moving water.

Water Safety Strategies A multi-faceted approach is needed to prevent drowning, taking into account the unique needs of children with autism.

1. Early Swimming Lessons: Swimming lessons tailored to an autistic child’s developmental level can significantly reduce the risk. Programs should focus on familiarizing the child with water and teaching basic swimming techniques.
2. Creating Safe Environments: Installing fences with self-locking gates, pool alarms, and door locks can limit uncontrolled access to water.
3. Following Water Safety Rules: Educating caregivers and educators about the specific risks associated with autism and teaching them first aid and CPR can help prevent tragic incidents.

A child should not only learn to stay afloat but also understand the potential dangers water presents. However, the main challenge lies in altering behaviors, which are difficult to change without addressing the underlying reasons for non-compliance with safety norms. Therefore, tackling the root cause of these behaviors—autism spectrum disorders—becomes the priority.

Stem Cell Therapy: A Solution to Improve Behavior and Safety The most effective method for achieving this goal today is stem cell therapy. After transplantation, stem cells transform into healthy equivalents of damaged brain cells that cannot properly perform their functions and replace them. The positive effects of this procedure, including behavioral improvements, are noticeable soon after, offering an opportunity for further progress through complementary therapeutic methods.

Stem cell transplantation is available at leading clinics worldwide, including the Mardaleishvili Medical Center, which is equipped with the latest technology. Its highly skilled doctors have extensive experience in stem cell therapy, demonstrating unprecedented success with this procedure.

Undergo stem cell transplantation—make water a safe environment for your child!