"My mission is to expand access to aquatics for neurodivergent individuals."
-Nina Sporn
Nina Sporn teaches swimming and tennis to children and young adults, particularly neurodivergent individuals and children with emotional sensitivities that make athletics challenging.
She wants to make sure that people stay safe by learning basic swimming skills, and to consider swimming as a great way to be physically fit. Nina encourages kids to develop confidence through swimming and athletics. "All children are great at something...building a child's self-esteem and self-worth is crucial."
"I have had students who overcame incredible fear of the water and significant sensory issues, who have found the courage to ultimately 'let go' and swim freely. It brings me joy every time!"
-Nina Sporn
Some of the benefits of swimming:
Self esteem
Safety
Strength
Stamina
Gross motor mastery
Overcome fears
Sensory soothing
Outlet for anxiety
Great exercise
Fun with friends
Contact with other children
Nina sees the opportunities for physical activity for atypical kids as woefully inadequate. "Neurodivergent kids can gain confidence and fitness through sports, and swimming is about the best skill one can have. My mission is to expand access to aquatics for neurodivergent individuals."
5 Water Safety Basics:
Floating
Breath control
Blow bubbles
Get to safety
Push off the bottom
Other things we discussed: My riptide story: Why we position ourselves near lifeguards. A little fear of the ocean is a good thing. Drowning is a very quiet thing. We lose skills when we can’t practice regularly.
Nothing takes the place of a parent’s attention. No one watches your child like you. Spend time with your kids in the water. Make it fun.
Belly Button Blowhole Breathing
Therapeutic benefits of silliness, especially after a micro trauma.
Nina's last word: "Have fun and wear sunscreen!"
Connect with Nina: nsporn@nyc.rr.com
Your comments, ratings and reviews mean a lot to me, and help other parents find our community.
5 Water Safety Basics and the Benefits of Physical Activity for Atypical Kids