"Izzy was born with a love for water. It has always had a relaxing effect on her. We use water as a way of calming her down. When she is having a bad day with many meltdowns, associated with her Autism, a shower is all she needs to ground herself again.
We started her first swimming lessons at four months old, and over the course of six years we have had numerous swimming teachers. Some teachers have tried but most, however, had failed her. Even after her diagnosis of Autism and ADHD, lessons did not get better.
We find the problem is always the same. Teachers were trying to get her to stop moving, to stop talking, and to stop playing around in the water; from hushing her to a more recent physical assault. We had given up hope. That was, until we met Peta.
When it comes to ASD and ADHD, it can be hard for teachers to teach differently, to adapt. However, children with a disability, diagnosed or undiagnosed, often need a different level of teaching style. Izzy needs to talk, she needs to keep moving. It is how she learns.
In one term with Peta, Izzy has acquired more skills than in the last six years of swimming lessons. Peta does it in a fun and loving way adapting her lessons to work around Izzy. Peta's kindness and determination to help Izzy enjoy her love for water in a safe way makes her a great role model for all teachers."
The letter below was sent by Izzy's mum to the Newman Aquatic Centre. It is a fantastic reflection on the hard work of the Shire of East Pilbara's swim teachers. The teacher and Swim School Co-ordinator mentioned in the letter is Peta Brittain, pictured with Izzy above.
Royal Life Saving WA is committed to reducing the burden of drowning on the Western Australian community by helping at-risk groups learn the essential skills of how to Swim and Survive.
As a not-for profit organisation we rely on generous members of the community to help us in implementing our lifesaving programs. If you would like to make a donation towards the WA Swim and Survive Fund please click the link below.
