This summer, the YMCA of Greenwich announced the launch of its new Adaptive Swim Lessons program, designed to help individuals with disabilities achieve safety and independence in the water. Led by the YMCA of Greenwich swim school staff certified by Swim Angelfish, the global leader in adaptive swim instruction. The program provides tailored swim lessons for individuals with ADHD, Autism, Down Syndrome, and other emotional, physical, or sensory challenges.
Thanks to a generous grant awarded to the YMCA of Greenwich from the Abilis Community Foundation, the YMCA of Greenwich certified its swim school instructors in the Adaptive Swim Whisperers® Program this past July.
“The Abilis Community Foundation is happy to have been able to support the Greenwich YMCA in building this wonderful program that provides adaptive swim instruction classes for our community. We look forward to hearing additional success stories from them,” said Hal Ritch, President of the Abilis Community Foundation.
Through the Swim Whisperers® Adaptive Aquatics Training, instructors learn how to adapt their teaching methods to each swimmer’s individual needs, helping swimmers with disabilities overcome common challenges and achieve swimming success more quickly and comfortably.
“The instructors who are now certified in the Adaptive Swim Whisperers program will greatly impact swimmers of all abilities at the YMCA of Greenwich. They have the tools to assess and identify underlying obstacles and implement strategies for swim success,” said Ailene Tisser, Co-Founder of Swim Angelfish.
The YMCA of Greenwich offers both private and semi-private adaptive swim lessons, with options for 30 or 60-minute sessions depending on preference. In private lessons with certified instructors, individuals experience customized instruction focused on building a strong foundation of basic swimming skills and swim stroke techniques. The goal is to nurture and develop each swimmer’s potential while ensuring safety and comfort in the water.
With a focus on individualized instruction, the program aims to empower swimmers with the skills they need to enjoy water activities safely and independently. The YMCA of Greenwich aims to help children and adults progress their swimming skills and provide them with opportunities to join inclusive swim lessons as the program develops.
Maja Dubois, grandparent of a child who has participated in adaptive lessons at the YMCA of Greenwich, shared their positive experience: “We are so grateful for the Adaptive Swim Program at the YMCA of Greenwich and for my grandson’s incredible instructor. After being fearful of the water due to past experiences, my 4 ½-year-old grandson, who has slight sensory issues, now trusts his instructor completely and is becoming an enthusiastic and confident swimmer—happily submerging his head and making big progress with each lesson!”
For more information about the Adaptive Swim Lessons program at the YMCA of Greenwich or to schedule a lesson, visit greenwichymca.org/programs/aquatics/adaptive
