Development of Aquatic Skills in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Review of Assessments

Abstract

Introduction: The prevalence of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has been increasing significantly in recent years. The characteristics of ASD include repetitive behaviors, communication difficulties, and comorbidities such as epilepsy and delays in motor development. Children with ASD face significant challenges in risk perception, resulting in vulnerability to accidents, including drownings. Swimming has proven to be a valuable tool for the motor, social, and emotional development of these children. Objective: This study aimed to conduct a literature review regarding the assessment methods used to measure swimming skills in children with ASD, analyzing the most common evaluation methodologies and their respective impacts. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in the MEDLINE, SciELO, LILACS, and Web of Science databases, taking into account the PEDro scale for assessing the quality of the studies. Results and Discussion: The analyzed studies demonstrated that various swimming programs, such as iCan Swim and CIMAT, promote significant improvements in aquatic and motor skills. Swimming not only contributes to inclusion and water safety but also enhances the quality of life for children with ASD. The research highlights the need for qualified professionals to meet the growing demand and emphasizes the importance of personalized approaches that consider the individual characteristics of each child.

Conclusion: Swimming is identified as an effective intervention for children with ASD, showing potential to promote aquatic skills and improve their quality of life. However, it is important to emphasize the necessity of appropriate assessments and specific methodologies tailored to this population.