Examining the experiences of parents and caregivers of children with autism spectrum disorder around aquatic environments

Through transcendental phenomenological qualitative research we investigated the experiences of parents and caregivers of children with ASD when accessing water environments. Semi-structured individual interviews were used to collect data with 12 parents (N=12). Results were grouped into two clusters. Experiences and perspectives on aquatic environment and recreational swimming included the themes: safety is the priority, attraction to water, acceptance of children with ASD in aquatic environments, and therapeutic benefits. Experiences and perspectives on swimming lessons included the themes; making lesson accessible, teaching methods, teach the teacher, and the impact on pride, independence, and normalcy. Findings suggest participation in water activities has a positive effect on children with ASD. Enrollment in swimming lessons can promote safe encounters with water for children with ASD. Parents identified barriers to accessing aquatic programming. Recommendations are provided for improvements to current swim programming and other aquatic environments.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Health Sciences (MHSc)

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Community, Public and Population Health

Grantor

University of Ontario Institute of Technology

Year dc:date.issued

2020

Author dc:creator

• Lobo, Larissa T.

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Kerpan, Serene

• Autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
• Aquatic
• Water
• Parent
• Swimming lessons

Language dc:language.iso

en

Handle dc:identifier.uri

https://hdl.handle.net/10155/1258

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:ontariotechu.scholaris.ca:10155/1258