Worcester Fitness and Autism Resource Center Launch Swim Safety Program for Children with Autism, Aiming to Prevent Tragedies

Kristen Cariglia, Director, Autism Resource Center and Janine LaPrade, from Worcester Fitness stopped by Talk of the Commonwealth to share a very special program. Cariglia tells us that in response to news stories about children on the autism spectrum who have drowned a special program has been put in place to teach swimming and water safety. The program in conjunction with Worcester County D.A. Joe Early’s office is offering special swim classes through several area partners, including Worcester Fitness. LaPrade says the program is a natural fit for both her and Worcester Fitness. LaPrade works with the neurodivergent community in classes of seven with a parent present. Children in the class learn not only how to swim but there is an emphasis put on water safety. More information and to sign up for classes at: www.autismresourcecentral.org worcesterfitnessswimacademy.com/adaptive-swim-academy/.