For many families raising a child with autism, one of the biggest fears is a child slipping away. That might mean walking out the front door, leaving the playground or disappearing into a crowd. This behavior, often called “wandering” or “elopement,” can happen in a matter of seconds. It’s more than stressful. In some cases, it can be life-threatening. 

Swimming and water play can benefit kids with autism in several ways. How, exactly, can swimming and water play help? What activities can you do in the water or at a water table to help your child?