Sensory and Adaptive Swim Days Ensure Inclusivity in Local Recreation
In a stride towards inclusivity, Bowling Green Parks and Recreation partnered with the Russell Sims Aquatic Center to facilitate the second Sensory and Adaptive Swim Day. Breaking down barriers that often prevent people with disabilities from partaking in recreational activities, these special swim days have been lauded for instilling a sense of belonging within the community.
Catering to the Special Needs
The event is tailored to allow those with disabilities to enjoy the pool in a less crowded and sensory-extreme environment. Cameron Levis, Recreation Manager of Bowling Green Parks and Recreation, underscored his team’s dedication to creating an inclusive environment. He mentioned, “This is just part of our commitment, to ensure there’s no barriers to a good experience in the park, a good experience here at the water park, or in any of our programs and services.”
Swimming Becomes Accessible
With the grant received in 2018, the center now offers adaptive water sports and extended facilities like adaptive kayaks, bellyaks, and water wheels. These provisions make swimming more accessible, especially to people who are usually afraid of water and large crowds, thus paving the way for a fun and relaxing experience.
Allison Cash’s Testimony
Allison Cash, a recreation therapist at Med Center, expressed her appreciation for these special days which allow her clients to experience swimming, often for the first time. “A lot of my clients have never been swimming, so this gives them a chance to be able to go to the pool and not be scared,” she said. By using the adaptive equipment, her clients can comfortably venture into water, experiencing the joy of swimming firsthand.
Moreover, one of her clients who was usually too scared to swim, was spotted enjoying his time on the bellyak. Another was seen making use of the water wheels despite having walking difficulties.
Participants’ Experience
One such attendee, Andrew Unruh, expressed his excitement over his newfound interest in kayaking and his plans to make it a regular activity. Another participant, Phillip Salmon, was seen excitedly exploring all the options available, from waterfalls to kayaking.
More to Come
Being hailed as a major success, two more sensory and adaptive swims are being planned for July 9 and July 23, wherein admission will be offered at a discounted rate. In the long run, authorities are hoping to see more inclusive programs which can be enjoyed by everybody.
The ongoing commitment from Bowling Green Parks and Recreation towards serving people with disabilities since the early 80s is giving hope and joy to many families in the community. The strides taken by the Sensory and Adaptive Swim Days are already making a difference and paving the way for future initiatives.
