Making Waves: communication and swimming

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Making Wavescommunication and swimming!

• Ann Gresswell (physio and teacher)
• Emilie Leeks (SLT)

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Swimming for communication

• Fun
• Sociable
• On the same level

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The Halliwick Concept

• A method used to teach disabled people to be
  competent and confident in the water

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The Halliwick Concept

• No flotation aids
• Holistic approach
• Teaching from the water
• Group work
• Games and activities

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The Halliwick Concept and Communication

• The holistic approach used in Halliwick leads to
  many opportunities for socialising and for
  communicating

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The Halliwick Concept and Communication

• Groups
• Games and activities
• Taking control and responsibility
• No flotation aids

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Vocalising

• Being in the water appears to promote vocalising
  and/or speech for some people
• Breathing can be easier in water for some
  people

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Suggestions for why breathing may be easier for
many swimmers

• water gives support to body
• pressure of water on chest gives proprioceptive
  feedback
• emphasis on blowing and humming

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Vocalising

• Other thoughts
• fun/enjoyment
• participation in groups and games
• singing

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Games and activities

• Singing and music
• Stories
• Competition
• Visits
• Events

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Communication in the swimming pool

• Speaking and listening
• Signing/gestures
• Writing and drawing
• Communication aids - symbols and charts

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Ideas for AAC resources

• Objects of Reference
• Photographs
• Pictures
• Symbols

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Variety of symbols for swim
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How to present photos/pictures/symbols

• Communication books
• Communication charts
• Etran frame

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Factors to consider

• Waterproof!
• Must be easily accessible
• Spare pair of hands!
• How swimmer indicates on charts
• How swimmer indicates yes/no
• Give time to confirm choice/comment

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Vocabulary

• Taking control
• Commenting
• Questioning
• Choosing
• Socialising
• Advance planning!

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Feelings
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Choosing an activity
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Choosing a theme
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Choosing within a theme
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Go and make waves!
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Contact details

• Ann Gresswell
• ann_gresswell_at_hotmail.com
• Emilie Leeks
• emilie.leeks_at_gmail.com

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Websites

• www.halliwick.org.uk
• www.ace-centre.org.uk