510 527-0446x3 snapkids@earthlink.net
The water is a wonderful place to play and learn. The water itself has many benefits. It can help improve a person's cardiovascular and respiratory fitness, flexibility, strength, balance, coordination, body scheme and sense of self. Many of the children in SNAP use the water as their primary source of physical activity. Many gain increased independence as they learn and/or practice how to walk, talk, reach, roll, jump, and swim. SNAP is also a great social outlet for the children and all the staff that participate. It is a magical time for everyone.
Classes
We serve between 40-50 children each semester, with an equal number of staff. Children range in age from 1 year to 18 years. Children have diagnoses such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, spinal muscular atrophy, arthritis, sensory integration disorder, developmental delays, and autistic spectrum disorder. While SNAP accepts chilren with a variety of needs, priority is given to children with physical challenges.
Classes run from September through June, with our Fall semester running 10 weeks and our Winter-Spring semester running 18 weeks. We have a 1:1 swimmer to helper ratio. Classes have approximately 6 swimmers, 6 helpers, and a head instructor. Classes meet for 50 minutes one time per week and are currently held in Berkeley.
Children may attend 1 time per week or every other week. Swimmers are grouped by age, not ability so that activities can be age appropriate and friendships can be made among our swimmers and between parents. Children participate in activity programs that are individualized to address their physical, intellectual, and developmental needs. They also participate in games, songs, and group activities each session. For children from 1 to 3 years old, parents are requested to participate in the water as well. Children and parents enjoy this special play time while children reap the benefits of therapeutic handling in the water.
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Parent-Tot Class
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This class is designed for children 3 years and
under and their parent(s). Instruction is presented to help parents
engage their young children in fun and beneficial activeities which
encourage physical, sensory, communication, and social development.
We highlight the beauty of each child and help foster the special
bond between parent and child.
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School Age Children
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Children are grouped by age to encourage social
opportunities and age appropriate activities. Children work on flexibility,
strength coordination, following directions, developmental swimming
skills, and social skills as needed. Children work individually
and in a group during each session.
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Pre-teens and Teens
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Children in this age group often have personal goals
for their fitness programs. We work to develop independent aquatic
skills, strength, and endurance, and provide opportunities for aquatic
games and group acitvities.
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Other Services
- Developmental aquatics for children with few to multiple challenges.
- Aquatic therapy for children.
- Consultations for children and families interested in transitioning to independent or community programs.
- Parent - Tot program for children 3 and under with special needs.
- Volunteer opportunities with significant training provided.
- Educational opportunities for rehabilitation and aquatic professionals.