Swim program for children on the spectrum starting soon in Lincoln

A new swim program for children on the Autism Spectrum is expected to start in late December of this year.

Parents said the purpose of the program, put on collectively by the Autism Family Network and Josh the Otter Foundations, is two-fold. It serves as an extracurricular activity but also teaches children life-saving skills.

Swim lessons are necessary too; according to the National Autism Association, 48% of children with autism spectrum disorder tend to wander.

Cathy Martinez, with the Autism Family Network, says this inclusive program is a must for families with children on the spectrum.

The swim program also received a $10,000 donation from the Reach Academy in New York City. It’s run by Florencio Palomo, a Nebraska native. It teaches children with special needs swimming skills.