The City of Prince Rupert will offer sensory swims and free mini try-it inclusive swim lessons to promote inclusivity.
The mini try-it sessions will give participants a chance to try inclusive swim lessons to decide if they are a good fit for them. The sensory swims will be offered alongside the try-it sessions with the first one taking place April 26 from noon to 2 p.m.
The inclusive lessons were made possible thanks to a bursary program provided by Trigon. Trigon believes that everyone should be able to learn how to swim, said CEO Craig Olley.
“Swimming is a life-saving skill, and inclusion matters. We’re pleased to partner in support of programming that helps a wider range of youth to feel confident in the water.”
The lessons will help neurodivergent individuals learn how to swim in a low-participant, supportive setting. This new program will boost the quality of life for families, said North Coast Community Services Society executive director Michelle MacNeill.
“These sessions offer focused activities that focus on balance, cross body coordination, joint attention and engagement, and building body strength in a dedicated way. Our focus at North Coast Community Services Society is to improve families’ quality of life by fostering inclusion and independence, while increasing access to a wide range of supportive therapies and community resources, and these lessons help us fulfil this mission.”
Families interested in participating are asked to contact aquatic coordinator Trysta Dutton by email at trysta.dutton@princerupert.ca.
