Swimming activities for autistic subjects: The experience of a sports association in Caserta

Autism, originally called Kaner Syndrome, is considered by the international scientific community as an ailment concerning cerebral function. A person affected by autism displays a significant decrease in social integration and communication. Aquatic motor activities involve a natural element (water) in a structured environment (public pool), according to a theoretic reference model and an organized methodology through phases, and uses cognitive, behavioral, and relational techniques and motor senses (Caputo G., Ippolito G., Maietta P., 2008). Our research was carried out at the public pool of the commune of Santa Maria Capua Vetere where a group of ten subjects affected by autism from the ACFFADIR Association, have been practicing aquatic activities for two years, with biweekly meetings. During these activities, the pool is also attended by subjects who are not affected by any ailments and by athletes in training. The analysis of the research carried out through the systematic observation by the operators, the surveys of the teachers in the educational field, and the findings of family and social environment and the results of the surveys show given improvements on the social affective and relational level, and improvements regarding personal autonomy and self esteem. Such an activity can, therefore, be considered a valid tool to favor the insertion and the inclusion of subjects affected by autism into the social environment.