Hello Jan,
I do not know of any programs teaching boating courses to autistic individuals specifically.
I was involved with the CT Special Olympic Sailing program for 15 years or so and have taught sailing classes to entire classes of deaf people. When you say you are "looking for existing materials, programs, or materials to create one," the materials and boating courses already exist. Having said that, if you were going to purchase or "create" a boating course for autistic individuals I believe it would be more of a delivery concern than an content matter. That is how would you present the existing information you want to convey to people that have challenges in such a way they will comprehend it.
Another thing to consider is the "level" of education you want to provide. Is a obtaining a state boating certificate or teaching the basic boating information (that everyone should know) your goal for these folks?
I'm more than happy to help you in anyway I can or locate a organization/person that would be able to assist help you with this.
Feel free to reach out to me directly at anytime. I can be reached at
mark.chanski@nasbla.org or 859-225-7372.
Take care,
Mark
PS: Boating is a great experience that everyone should enjoy and those joys may not be the obvious ones. In all the years I spent teaching sailing people with disabilities, I'm not sure who gain more - them or me.
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Mark Chanski
NASBLA Deputy Education Director
NASBLA
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Original Message:
Sent: 12-14-2020 07:46 AM
From: Jan Willhite-Iserman
Subject: Boating safety Classes for autistic students
Our Boating Safety Foundation is trying to find information about any existing boating safety classes for special needs. I have a 34 year old neighbor who is autistic and loves to be on the water. He asked me if we could do a class. I think it's important that everyone have access to boating safety education. Am looking for any existing programs or materials to create one.
Thank you in advance for any input you may have.
Jan Willhite-Iserman
Ashleigh Iserman Boating Safety Foundation
Sent from my iPad