You’ve started an inclusive summer camp program, or swimming lesson program, and now your kids show up to the pool with their specialist or their paraprofessional. Now what? How do we, as Aquatic Professionals, best support our inclusion support staff? To dig into this, we looked at what successful support and pool days look like from specialists’ viewpoints. Mark Rembrant has a son who was diagnosed with autism in 2005. They had advantages that a lot of families do not inc

Neurodiversity is not new to aquatics. What is becoming increasingly clear, however, is that while aquatics professionals are committed to inclusive practice, many feel underprepared to meet the wide range of needs they encounter on deck and in the water. To better understand how aquatics leaders, instructors, and trainers are experiencing neurodiversity in their programs, AOAP collected survey responses from experienced professionals across the field. The results offer an ho

In today’s increasingly diverse and inclusive society, it’s important to create an environment that recognizes and respects every individual's gender identity, particularly in competitive and workplace settings. Lifeguards, as crucial members of a team that ensures safety at aquatic facilities, should be supported in ways that allow them to thrive. Here’s a guide to implementing best practices that promote inclusivity and enhance safety and comfort for lifeguards, especially