Summertime Fun - Water Safety
Summer is quickly approaching and can be a great time to get out and play in the water. For families of young autistic children, however, water activities can present unique safety considerations. In recognition of May as National Water Safety Month, this is an excellent opportunity to discuss some of these challenges and review important strategies for keeping children safe in and around water.
Many autistic children are naturally drawn to water, while others may have limited awareness of danger, difficulty responding to verbal warnings, or even have a tendency to wander. Because of this, adults need to watch very closely at all times. It is also important to provide clear, consistent expectations that should be taught and practiced ahead of water activities. Some extra planning can go a long way when it comes to water safety. Let’s be prepared!
*Learn more about why autistic children are naturally drawn to water HERE.
Tips that can help you plan and keep your child safe around water.
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Always stay within arm’s reach when your child is in or near water.
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Teach simple, clear rules like “stop,” “wait,” and “come back.” Practice them often.
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Practice safety skills like stopping at the pool edge and waiting for permission.
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Enroll in swim lessons that match your child’s learning style and pace.
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Have your child wear a properly fitted life jacket near open water.
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Use visual supports or social stories before outings to explain what will happen.
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Watch for sensory overload—noise, crowds, or cold water may affect behavior.
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Offer breaks and keep routines predictable during outings.
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Teach simple communication words like “help,” “break,” or “all done.”
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Use extra protection around pool areas: locked gates, door alarms, and pool covers.
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Consider ID bracelets or tracking devices if wandering is a concern.
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Consider learning CPR and emergency response steps.
Check out some autism friendly events and activities in the area to enjoy this summer, including opportunities specific to water safety!
Join Hidden Creek and Northwest Regional ESD for this free Sensory Playtime! Early Intervention and Early Childhood Special Education staff will be on hand to share information about child development, answer basic questions, and provide details about services and supports available to families with children aged 5 and under.
Play is self-led, and adult supervision is required. At least one adult/guardian must remain present at all times.
0-5 years of age | Hidden Creek Community Center
Mondays: 5/11 & 6/8
9 am to 11 am
Included with a Play Pass, Family Membership, or Single Visit Fee.Supervising adults attend free. No Registration Required.
Summer EBT Benefits
Summer EBT is a grocery benefits program that helps families buy food for school-aged children when school is out. Eligible families will receive a one-time payment of $120 per child.
For more information visit the SEBT website: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/food/pages/sebt.aspx
2026 Summer EBT flyer in English
Further questions, contact the SEBT team directly at SummerEBTinfo@odhs.oregon.gov.
Message from our Nurses:
When the warm weather arrives, we all know it’s time for outdoor water fun!
There are lots of safe outdoor water play activities for young children.
Whether you are having a water balloon toss, having kids clean outdoor toys in a water table, or running through sprinklers, it is important to remember water safety.
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Stay Safe: Supervise children at all times around water and inspect inflatable toys for safety
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Setup Time: Set up water activities in the morning to beat the heat
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Reusable Options: Consider using reusable water balloons for convenience and to reduce waste
- Have fun!!!
With warmer weather and outdoor activities it is also important to protect yourself and children from the heat and the sun.
- Use Sunscreen! Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects against UVA and UVB rays and is water-resistant. Remember to reapply regularly if out in the sun for a long period of time. There are many sunscreen options available for all ages and in all forms–lotions, sunscreen sticks, sprays. Choose one that will work best for your family and make it easy to apply!
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat, UV protective sunglasses, and loose-fitting clothing that can keep you cool and protect you from the sun's harmful rays.
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Seek Shade. Try to find a shady spot if you are in the sun during the mid to late afternoon–which is the hottest part of the day here in Oregon!
- Stay hydrated
 Even a short time in the afternoon sun on a warm day can cause babies and young children to overheat. Signs that your child is getting too warm outside are:
- Red, flushed, or blotchy skin, especially on the face.
- Small red bumps on the skin, often in creases of the elbows and behind the knees
- Face, neck, chest, or ears feel noticeably hot.
- Increased irritability, crying, restlessness, or acting overly tired and lethargic.
- Mild headache
If you see these signs, it is time to take a break and cool off in the shade or inside.
More severe signs of overheating that need to be monitored closely are:
- Rapid, heavy breathing or a fast heart rate.
- Either excessive, intense sweating or a sudden, dangerous lack of sweating.
- Fewer wet diapers, dry skin/mouth, or no tears when crying.
- Headache, dizziness, or muscle cramps in the legs or stomach.
If you see these signs, seek shade or go inside right away. Offer cool (not ice cold) water and apply cool compresses to face, neck, and chest.
Summer Activities
Looking for fun ways to stay active and engaged this summer? We’re sharing links below to local park and recreation programs in your area, along with summer camp options and activities offered through organizations like the YMCA. These programs offer a variety of opportunities for children and families—from outdoor play to creative classes and structured camps.
Don’t forget to check out your local library, too! Many libraries offer free summer storytimes and family-friendly events that are a great way to build routines and connect with your community.
We hope these resources help you make the most of the season—stay safe and have a wonderful summer!
Washington County THPRD - Summer 2026 Activities Guide
Washington County (Tigard area) Camp Yakety Yak
Hillsboro Park and Rec - Early Childhood Activities
Clatsop County - Sunset Empire Parks and Rec
Tillamook County - YMCA
Tillamook County - Wild Coast Camp
Columbia County - Parks, Forests and Recreation Menu
FACT Oregon
Looking for ways to stay connected and informed this summer? The FACT Oregon website, linked here, offers a variety of helpful, family-friendly resources to explore at your own pace.
One highlight is the Inclusive Education Toolkit (Every Child Belongs), designed for families of young children with disabilities. This toolkit can help you better understand your child’s educational rights and provide guidance on working collaboratively with preschools, childcare programs, and school districts.
FACT Oregon also offers a selection of on-demand trainings that you can access anytime, making it easy to learn when it fits your schedule. For more information, click here.
We encourage you to take a look and see what might be helpful for your family—whether you're preparing for the upcoming school year or simply want to learn more about supporting your child’s success.
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