"My mission is to expand access to aquatics for neurodivergent individuals."

-Nina Sporn

Nina Sporn teaches swimming and tennis to children and young adults, particularly neurodivergent individuals and children with emotional sensitivities that make athletics challenging. 

She wants to make sure that people stay safe by learning basic swimming skills, and to consider swimming as a great way to be physically fit. Nina encourages kids to develop confidence through swimming and athletics. "All children are great at something...building a child's self-esteem and self-worth is crucial."

"I have had students who overcame incredible fear of the water and significant sensory issues, who have found the courage to ultimately 'let go' and swim freely. It brings me joy every time!"

-Nina Sporn

Some of the benefits of swimming:

Self esteem

Safety 

Strength 

Stamina 

Gross motor mastery 

Overcome fears 

Sensory soothing 

Outlet for anxiety 

Great exercise 

Fun with friends 

Contact with other children 

Nina sees the opportunities for physical activity for atypical kids as woefully inadequate. "Neurodivergent kids can gain confidence and fitness through sports, and swimming is about the best skill one can have. My mission is to expand access to aquatics for neurodivergent individuals."

5 Water Safety Basics:

1. Floating 


2. Breath control 


3. Blow bubbles 


4. Get to safety 


5. Push off the bottom 

Other things we discussed: My riptide story: Why we position ourselves near lifeguards. A little fear of the ocean is a good thing. Drowning is a very quiet thing. We lose skills when we can’t practice regularly.

Nothing takes the place of a parent’s attention. No one watches your child like you. Spend time with your kids in the water. Make it fun.

Belly Button Blowhole Breathing

Therapeutic benefits of silliness, especially after a micro trauma. 

Nina's last word: "Have fun and wear sunscreen!"

Connect with Nina: nsporn@nyc.rr.com

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