1. Making Waves:communication and swimming! Ann Gresswell (physio and teacher) Emilie Leeks (SLT)

2. ‘Swimming’ for communication • Fun • Sociable • On the same level

3. The Halliwick Concept A method used to teach disabled people to be competent and confident in the water

4. The Halliwick Concept • No flotation aids • Holistic approach • Teaching from the water • Group work • Games and activities

5. The Halliwick Concept and Communication The holistic approach used in Halliwick leads to many opportunities for socialising and for communicating

6. The Halliwick Concept and Communication • Groups • Games and activities • Taking control and responsibility • No flotation aids

7. Vocalising Being in the water appears to promote vocalising and/or speech for some people Breathing can be easier in water for some people…

8. Suggestions for why breathing may be easier for many swimmers • water gives support to body • pressure of water on chest gives proprioceptive feedback • emphasis on blowing and humming

9. Vocalising Other thoughts… • fun/enjoyment • participation in groups and games • singing

10. Games and activities • Singing and music • Stories • Competition • Visits • Events

11. Communication in the swimming pool • Speaking and listening • Signing/gestures • Writing and drawing • Communication aids - symbols and charts

14. Ideas for AAC resources • Objects of Reference • Photographs • Pictures • Symbols

15. Variety of symbols for ‘swim’

16. How to present photos/pictures/symbols • Communication books • Communication charts • Etran frame

17. Factors to consider • Waterproof! • Must be easily accessible • Spare pair of hands! • How swimmer indicates on charts • How swimmer indicates ‘yes’/‘no’ • Give time to confirm choice/comment

18. Vocabulary • Taking control • Commenting • Questioning • Choosing • Socialising Advance planning…!

19. Feelings

20. Choosing an activity

21. Choosing a theme

22. Choosing within a theme

23. Go and make waves!

24. Contact details • Ann Gresswell • ann_gresswell@hotmail.com • Emilie Leeks • emilie.leeks@gmail.com

25. Websites • www.halliwick.org.uk • www.ace-centre.org.uk