Our pool is used for both therapeutic and recreational purposes and is open to all of our students. It is 30 X 30 foot, heated to 86-88 degrees, and offers a flat floor at a depth of 4 feet. It has a lift and stairway fitted with hand rails providing access to individuals of all abilities. A lifeguard is always on duty.

Individuals may participate in therapy, free swim, independent exercise, or a group water activities program led by a teacher. There is a basketball hoop and a variety of aquatic equipment for student use. Being in the pool is a fun, unconventional place to work on therapy goals. For some kids, it’s the first place they learn to stand without help. Physical and occupational therapists offer therapy and exercise options in the pool.

Therapy in the pool provides exercise within a soothing and comforting environment. Water buoyancy makes aerobic and anaerobic exercises safe and effective by allowing children to move freely.

Aqua therapy is one of the best environments for a child to improve physical functioning, especially if the child is not ambulatory. What sets aquatic therapy apart from traditional therapy is that the water – which in and of itself is known for restorative and detoxifying properties – provides buoyancy that makes aerobic and anaerobic exercises easy to perform effectively, and safely.

Additionally, if the water is warm, it has a massage effect on muscles, joints and ligaments that often times are over-used and in pain. Aquatic therapy can also improve a child’s disposition and self-esteem by providing a sense of accomplishment as they master the exercises that take place in the pool.

In addition, warm water immersion can:

• Support body weight and lessen the effects of gravity
• Provide buoyancy and reduce weight-bearing stress on joints
• Promote deep breathing
• Promote cardiovascular and muscular endurance
• Increase circulation, flexibility & balance
• Promote healing
• Encourage relaxation