The University of Alabama’s Autism Spectrum Disorders Clinic will host a free Inclusive Pool Party for children and teens with autism and their families on Thursday, June 4, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the UA Outdoor Pool Complex.
The event is open to children and teens ages 18 and younger who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder. Each child must attend with a parent or caregiver, and attendance is limited to six people per family.
According to Laura Hansen, director of the UA Autism Spectrum Disorders Clinic, the event is designed to provide families with a welcoming and supportive environment where children can enjoy themselves while connecting with others in the autism community.
“It’s a great environment for families to just enjoy being with one another,” Hansen said. “But still feel safe because there will also be lifeguards.”
Families attending the event will have access to the facility’s main pool, lazy river, waterslide and splash pad area for younger children. Guests will also receive complimentary sweet treats from the pool concession stand, Bama Cabana.
Hansen said some of the first families to arrive will receive free pool-themed items including towels, pool noodles, boogie boards and inflatable pool toys.
“There is no cost to attend,” Hansen said.
The event is part of the clinic’s ongoing effort to create inclusive spaces for families who may find traditional public events difficult to attend.
“We want families to really feel included and to feel comfortable at these events,” Hansen said. “They can all come together in a place where they feel safe and supported.”
The Inclusive Pool Party is funded through the clinic’s Supporting and Educating Resilient Families (SERF) Program grant from the Alabama Department of Child Abuse & Neglect Prevention Children’s Trust Fund of Alabama. The $70,000 grant supports workshops and community events aimed at building social connections and support networks for families.
Families can register for the event through The University of Alabama Autism Spectrum Disorders Clinic Facebook page or online at autism-clinic.ua.edu/groups-and-events/.
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