🌊 Swimming Lessons for Young Children and the NDIS: What You Need to Know

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Today, we're diving into the topic of swimming lessons for young children and how they relate to NDIS funding. Whether you're an NDIS participant, a carer, or just curious about plan management, we're here to provide clarity on this topic.

Swimming is a fantastic activity for children, promoting both physical health and social interaction. However, the NDIS has specific guidelines when it comes to funding swimming lessons for young children. Generally, group swimming lessons are not funded as they are considered a typical day-to-day cost that everyone incurs, regardless of disability.

The NDIS might fund supports that are directly related to a child’s developmental delay or disability, such as assistive technology or adjustments that enable participation in swimming lessons. For example, funding could be available for supports that help a child with sensory sensitivities or physical challenges participate in lessons.

Parents or carers are generally expected to support their children during activities like swimming, especially for children under three years old. The NDIS expects that families explore all mainstream options and reasonable adjustments before requesting specific funding. The goal is to integrate children into community activities wherever possible, rather than funding separate or private lessons that isolate them from their peers.

Tommy, a four-year-old with Autism Spectrum Disorder, struggled in group swimming lessons due to sensory sensitivities. His mother sought funding for private lessons, but after assessment, the NDIS found that this wasn’t the most effective approach. Instead, they suggested using existing funding for capacity building, allowing an early intervention therapist to help Tommy manage his sensitivities and participate in group lessons.

• NDIS generally doesn’t fund swimming lessons as they are considered regular living costs.

• Funding may be available for supports that help a child with disabilities participate in community swimming activities.

• Parents are expected to provide support during lessons, especially for very young children.

• The NDIS encourages exploring all mainstream and reasonable adjustments before seeking specific funding.

We hope this guide helps clarify how swimming lessons fit into NDIS funding! If you have more questions or need assistance with your plan, reach out to your friendly ISM team. We're here to support your NDIS journey every step of the way! 😊💪

For more detailed information, you can visit the NDIS guidelines on swimming lessons.