This spring, Salem Gymnastics & Swim is launching a program that many Triad families have been waiting for – Adaptive Swim Lessons tailored specifically for children with diverse learning and sensory needs. Beginning April 1, 2026, the longstanding Winston-Salem organization will offer specialized instruction designed not only to teach swimming skills, but also to support emotional regulation, physical development and confidence in children who learn differently.
Located on Country Club Road, Salem Gymnastics & Swim has served families for more than four decades. Now, with the introduction of its Adaptive Swim Program, the organization is expanding its mission to make water safety accessible to every child – especially those who may struggle in traditional swim environments. The program is now enrolling new students and is open to children with a wide range of abilities, such as autism, sensory processing challenges, trauma, anxiety, motor delays and other developmental differences.
At the heart of the new program is the Swim Whisperers® methodology, a nationally recognized instructional approach that equips instructors with strategies to support children who face obstacles such as sensory overload, difficulty following directions, communication differences or fear of water. Salem’s instructors have undergone specialized training to understand how each child learns and processes the world, allowing them to customize lessons to individual needs and abilities.
Lessons are offered in private or small group formats to reduce distractions and increase personalized attention. Families can also choose times when the facility is quieter, helping create a calm, supportive atmosphere for children who may become overwhelmed in busy environments. Above all, the program prioritizes lifesaving water skills – an essential focus given the heightened drowning risks among neurodivergent children. Research published by Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health in the American Journal of Public Health shows that children with autism are 160 times more likely to drown than their neurotypical peers. Additional national data reveals that 91% of wandering-related fatalities among children with autism involve drowning.
Co-owner Beth Morphis emphasizes that the program is rooted equally in compassion and expertise. “Every child deserves the opportunity to learn to swim in a safe and supportive environment,” she shared. “Our goal is to meet each child where they are, celebrate every milestone and help them build confidence both in and out of the water.”
For many families, adaptive swimming can be truly transformative. One Winston-Salem family recently shared their son Elliott’s experience after enrolling him in adaptive lessons at Salem. Elliott, a first grade homeschool student, has always loved the water – but traditional activities sometimes posed challenges due to emotional regulation and sensory needs. After learning that adaptive swim lessons qualified for the North Carolina ESA+ Scholarship, the family began with one class per week. They quickly noticed improvements in Elliott’s focus, responsiveness and overall emotional regulation.
His mother, Jennifer, explained that the water provides a full body sensory experience that helps Elliott feel more grounded. “The water connects with all of his senses at once,” she said. “Because he becomes more regulated, he can sit longer and focus better during his homeschool lessons. We are so thankful Salem Gymnastics & Swim became a scholarship vendor.” The family has since increased his lesson frequency and continues to see meaningful progress both in and out of the pool.
Jennifer hopes other parents will consider the benefits of adaptive swimming for their children. “Swimming can be an amazing outlet,” she shared – a sentiment echoed by the Salem team, who view the program as an opportunity to give families both support and peace of mind.
As a locally owned business entering its 46th year, Salem Gymnastics & Swim continues to build on its legacy of serving families with high quality programs that nurture confidence, skill development and personal growth. In addition to swimming, the organization offers gymnastics, ninja training and a variety of camps throughout the year, all designed to give children fun, healthy opportunities to thrive.
Families interested in enrolling in Adaptive Swim Lessons or learning more about the program can contact Salem Gymnastics & Swim at 336.765.4668 or visit their website at salemgym.com/swim/adaptive-classes. With drowning prevention as their mission and inclusiveness in their hearts, the new program promises to make a meaningful impact on the safety and well being of children across the Triad.
