We Speak Swim.
Proven success combining traditional SLP practices with swimming instruction, focused on multi-sensory learning experiences
How does it work?
Beckwith designs the session around a swimmer's specific need. For example, In a 20-minute swim session, Beck engages with the student through 75+ drills of natural repetition of the letter /r/. Her hands-on approach doesn’t feel like learning to the student — the learning is in such a natural, engaging manner that it’s naturally fun! Students look forward to the next lesson.
One of the largest drawbacks in traditional therapy is the lack of carryover. There are often inconsistencies in what is shown in the therapy office and what is heard at home. Parents are encouraged to watch and listen poolside to naturally embed these same speech therapy tips and strategies during daily conversations at home or in the car. Practice doesn’t have to be a worksheet. Good speech is applicable all day across every setting.
Peer Modeling
Group Sessions: Beck uses peer modeling in group sessions. When kids see and hear others following directions and speaking smoothly, they strive to do the same. This carries over to swim instruction, too. When children see their peers putting their faces in the water, swimming without plugging their nose and jumping off from the side of the pool, their confidence around the water increases. Speech sound group classes are open for children with and without documented sound errors. They are categorized for ages 3-4, 5-6, and 7+.
Private Sessions: 1:1 sessions are available for everyone.
Autism
Individuals with Autism are drawn to the water. Due to difficulties in impulsivity and safety awareness, children with ASD face a risk of drowning, both nonfatal and fatal, that is 160 times higher than that of their neurotypical peers (National Drowning Prevention Alliance).
Sessions with kids on the spectrum are joyous. Their smiles are infectious in the water. The properties of the water provide the regulation many of their bodies seek and language flows naturally.
These sessions often require more individualized attention within the water for speech therapy and swimming instruction. Private sessions are encouraged to build rapport and foundational skills in safety and swimming prior to participation in group Speech & Swim (™).
Social Swim
Social Swim is a group class for ages 7+ for children with needs in social/pragmatic communication. This aquatic social group incorporates facilitated conversation to help navigate friendships and social relationships. It is an incredibly fun way to practice starting a conversation, asking a peer to play, participating in play (taking turns), sharing the topic of conversation, listening to your friend, etc. Social Swim is taught by two instructors and is one of our most popular classes.
