Featured Monthly
support group
Safe Swim Academy
The Newaygo County Autism Community recently partnered with the Fremont Community Recreation Center to present the Safe Swim Academy. This program, funded by an Amazing X Grant from the Fremont Area Community Foundation, provides swimming and water safety instruction for Newaygo County residents living with autism.
According to the Red Cross (April 2023), drowning is the number one cause of death among children and adults with autism. Children with autism are 160 times more likely to experience fatal and non-fatal drownings than their peers.
Studies show that people with autism have a natural affinity with water and drowning is the leading cause of accidental death for children with autism. With 121 lakes and countless other bodies of water in Newaygo County, the Safe Swim Academy addresses this extremely important safety issue for ourautistic population and their families.
Dana Simon, who is a special education teacher who is also a highly qualified swimming and water safety instructor, provided lessons for 11 autistic students ranging in age from 4 to 16 years of age. After an initial assessment, Dana was able to program for each student’s individual needs, taking into consideration prior swimming experience, general levels of anxiety, communication ability, sensory concerns, and overall comfort in the water. Each student made individual and unique progress in 10 sessions throughout a 4 week period in June and July.
Autism Support Group Meetings
This will be coming in the near future.
A place of support and encouragement for those dealing with autism.
Our support groups will offer childcare and dinner!!
Whether you are new to the journey or have been on this road for some time, no matter what side of the spectrum your child is on, you'll find support and encouragement. Come empower yourself with other individuals, parents, and community members through shared information, guest speakers, and publications.
Keep and eye on the upcoming events page for the next support group
Family Open-Swim at Tamarac
Newaygo County Autism Community is hosting an OPEN SWIM for our families free of charge!
Events are always posted on the events calendar on main page
Please bring your own towels!
A Parent/Guardian MUST accompany their child.
Sensory Friendly Movie
Sensory friendly showtimes provide a special opportunity for families to enjoy their favorite films in a safe and accepting environment.
The auditorium dedicated to the program have their lights up, the sound turned down and audience members are invited to get up and dance, walk, shout or sing!
