Warriewood Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) has celebrated the success of a new inclusive program for neurodivergent children, the ‘Dippers’. A joint initiative between Soroptimist International Northern Beaches (SINB) and Autism Swim, ‘Dippers’ offers a tailored beach experience that meets the unique needs of children with autism. With structured beach activities aimed at enhancing water safety skills, fostering social interaction, and promoting confidence and independence, ‘Dippers’ marks a leap towards greater accessibility on the Northern Beaches.
Parents and participants have wholeheartedly embraced the program as a more accessible alternative to ‘Nippers’, especially for neurodiverse children who may find traditional beach activities overwhelming. “Dippers has enabled Harley to undertake Nippers, something he has always wanted to do but would be overwhelmed doing,” explains Jaime Swales, a parent whose son benefits from the program. “He loves all the beach and water activities without the added pressure of large groups, overwhelming competition, and inflexible structure.” Harley himself expresses his love for Dippers, stating, “I love it because I feel comfortable and can do things at my own pace.”
Melissa Sheather, president of SINB, expresses her delight in witnessing the program’s positive impact on neurodiverse children. “We are committed to advocating for and supporting women and their children in the area,” Sheather notes. “The Dippers program perfectly aligns with our mission, bringing joy and empowerment to children and families alike.”
Funding for the Dippers program was made possible through extensive fundraising efforts led by SINB, with generous support from Community Bank Freshwater. Sheather acknowledges the community’s support, emphasising the importance of collective efforts in getting this program off the ground.
Warriewood SLSC’s decision to lead the Dippers pilot program highlights its commitment to expand the accessibility of beach activities for more members of the community to enjoy. Neal McCarry, head of Nippers at Warriewood SLSC, explains the club’s motivation for partnering with Autism Swim. “The Dippers program offers an invaluable opportunity to provide an inclusive aquatic experience for children with autism,” McCarry states. “We are proud to lead the way in creating a supportive environment where every child can thrive.”
The program owes much of its success to the dedicated volunteers who generously donate their time to support children in the surf. Randall Mettam, a parent of a child benefiting from the program, acknowledges their contribution, stating, “The staff are extremely welcoming, open, and they just get it. The good intentions are obvious, and the volunteers are angels.”
Among these volunteers is sixteen-year-old Saskia Rundle Trowbridge, who emphasises the importance of inclusivity in beach activities. Reflecting on her involvement, Saskia says, “every child should have the chance to be able to come down to the beach, do fun activities and play in the water, with the support that they need.” Hannah Ghazal, the Behavioural Support Practitioner representing Autism Swim notes that it’s an inclusive environment “where participants are building their social development skills while learning crucial surf/ water skills to access the beach safely”.
And if the sandy smiles on the beach were any indication, ‘Dippers’ has found a permanent place in the hearts of participants and parents who have warmly embraced it. As the program continues to expand its reach, organisers hope to inspire other clubs across the beaches to follow, paving the path forward towards a brighter, more inclusive Northern Beaches.
For more information on the Dippers program, head online to: autismswim.com.au/