Swim PALS is a comprehensive, family-centered program designed to reduce the risk of wandering and drowning through education, planning, and skill-building. This collaborative initiative combines expert-led parent training, individualized safety planning, and accessible swim instruction to empower families with the tools they need to keep their children safe.

Who Can Participate: This program is open to families of children with autism ages 2-7 who are registered with the UCF Center for Autism & Related Disabilities (CARD).

Cost: The only cost associated with participation is for the 1:1 Adaptive Swim Lessons offered in partnership with CARD and PALS.  $100 per week, billed weekly  –

Program Components: The program features 3 main components: Parent Webinar, Home Visit, and Swim Lessons at UCF. You must register and attend all 3 components.

Part 1: Parent Webinar: Wandering & Drowning Prevention

• Hosted by UCF CARD, this monthly webinar will provide essential strategies for preventing wandering and reducing drowning risk.
• A zoom link will be provided with your confirmation for this mandatory call. 

Part 2: Individualized Home Safety Planning

• UCF CARD will schedule home visits with participating families.
• During this appointment, a CARD ASD Specialist will help develop a personalized safety plan tailored to your child’s needs and environment. 
• Based on the needs indicated, we will assist you by providing resources and/or tools (as available).

Part 3: Swim Lessons 

• Children will participate in daily swim lessons, Monday through Thursday, for a up to 8 weeks. Two additional weeks will be available if needed before certification. 
• Lessons will take place in between 7:30 AM and 10:00 AM, will last approximately 10 minutes. and will build water confidence and safety skills in a supportive, autism-friendly environment.
• Parent/ Guardian must remain on the pool deck for the duration of each lesson.

REGISTER HERE

Download Safety Guide