Self-Determination Program Services
Services are available for regional center clients who participate in the Self-Determination Program. Aquatic occupational therapy is one way to develop the skills your child needs to participate in everyday life.
Aqua therapy combines expert guidance and the natural properties of water to create a safe, supportive, and highly effective environment for development. The unique properties of water allow for therapeutic interventions, exercises, and activities that provide sensory input while addressing:
✔ Self-regulation and attention
✔ Body and spatial awareness
✔ Core strength and stability
✔ Safety awareness
✔ Confidence
✔ Endurance
✔ Balance
✔ Mobility
Who Can Benefit?
Aqua therapy can be especially helpful for:
Sensory processing differences
Delays in fine or gross motor skills
Difficulty with motor skills, balance, or coordination
Muscle weakness or spasticity
Poor postural control
Balance impairments
Difficulties with self-regulation and attention
Neuromuscular disorders
Autism spectrum disorder
Spinal cord injuries
Down syndrome
Cerebral palsy
Aquatic and occupational therapy can be provided in your home or community settings based upon your child’s individualized goals and needs. Aquatic therapy can be provided in addition to land-based OT and PT and can often help an individual progress further than with only traditional therapy. Aqua therapy and time in the water can be it’s own enjoyable activity, however the benefits carryover into daily life.
Water safety is a top priority and services can be used with social/recreation activities (for example, a pool membership) and can involve caregiver training. As individuals transition from school supports, services can focus on developing a healthy exercise routine, community integration and access, and maximizing independence. Services look different for everyone.