Water Safety with Miss Dayna is a program that teaches families about staying safe around water. Miss Dayna is an AutismSwim certified swimming instructor who has created tools, like her “Watching Initiative,” to help autistic people stay safe near pools, lakes, rivers, and oceans
With autism rates on the rise, a lot of people are wondering why autism is becoming so common. The truth is that there is no one thing causing the rise in autism. The increase in the number of autism cases is the result of several different things coming together.
Research shows that autistic children are 160 times more likely to drown than non-autistic children. A major reason for this risk is elopement, which means running or wandering away from parents, caregivers, or safe places. About 49% of autistic people elope, and sadly, more than 70% of drowning deaths in autism are linked to elopement.
Worship services can be a special time. People often leave feeling happy, connected, and stronger in their faith. The music, the chance to talk with friends and family, and the uplifting messages bring people together. But for autistic people, these same services can sometimes feel stressful or overwhelming. Bright lights, loud sounds, strong smells, and crowded rooms can create anxiety instead of peace.
Early diagnosis for autistic children is crucial to allow earlier intervention, which can truly make a lifelong difference. For example, with early diagnosis, children can begin therapies, be better understood by their caregivers and families, and develop communication and social skills to improve their overall success. When children are diagnosed earlier, they receive support sooner, leading to better outcomes later in life.