3 Neurodivergent Behaviors & What They’re Really Saying

Neurodivergent swimmers may communicate their needs through behaviors that are often misunderstood. Recognizing these behaviors early can make the difference between a swimmer feeling overwhelmed and a swimmer feeling supported. In this webinar, we’ll explore 3 behaviors seen in neurodivergent swimmers and discover what the underlying behavior is telling you.

• Presenters: Cindy Freedman and Ailene Tisser, Co-Founders of Swim Angelfish
• Category: Diversity & Inclusion or Programming and Staff Training
• .1 CEU earned by completing all modules and passing the exam with a score of 70% or above

More About Cindy Freedman and Ailene Tisser

Cindy Freedman, MS, OTR/L is an occupational and recreational therapist with over 30 years of experience specializing in pediatrics and aquatics. Driven by a passion for water safety and helping children with special needs reach their full potential, Cindy co-founded Swim Angelfish, an organization dedicated to providing adaptive swim and aquatic therapy services as well as professional training. Her expertise in sensory integration, reflex repatterning, and aquatics, coupled with her love for water and experience as a national champion diver, has enabled her to make a profound impact on the lives of countless children. Cindy is certified as an Autism Specialist by IBCCES, and shows an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of children with special needs.

Ailene Tisser, a pediatric Physical Therapist with over 30 years of experience and co-founder of Swim Angelfish® and the Swim Whisperers® method, specializes in aquatic therapy and adaptive swim for children with special needs. Trained in NDT, DIR/Floortime, and certified as an Autism Specialist and Primitive Reflex Specialist she fosters water safety, confidence, and independence in her young clients. Ailene is also passionate about educating aquatic professionals, setting a standard of excellence for adaptive aquatics training and professional development.