Testimonials
A bit about SNUGS from the parents and guardians…
“ SNUGS is a fabulous program, assisting special needs children with the ability to swim independently, while gaining confidence- all while having fun! My daughter Braelyn, who is 6yrs old, enjoys the program immensely! As a parent of a special needs child, it was imperative for Braelyn to be aware of water safety, and learn life-saving measures for her well being. SNUGS has offered a program that makes me feel comfortable while letting my child learn such important skills! The staff is amazing and takes the time to make your child feel comfortable in the water. I would recommend this program without hesitation for any future child! As a special needs mom, there is nothing comparable to seeing your child work towards & accomplish their goals- Thank you SNUGS program for all you do and instill in my little girl! We truly appreciate it :) “
-Michelle Miller
“ We participated in two sessions of the SNUGS program and our son could not possibly enjoy it more. The student volunteers go above and beyond to make all the swimmers feel comfortable. Everyone is so patient and kind, and our son has the amazing opportunity to get time in the water which he absolutely loves! Thank you SNUGS! ”
-Mariah Roy
“ Having a young child with special needs means that we often miss out on group activities, team sports and other social events, that can often be too overwhelming or unsafe for my son. Since children with autism have an increased risk of drowning, it was critical for us to get him involved with swim lessons. However, he just couldn’t focus during group lessons. It took him many private lessons to overcome his initial fears of getting his face wet and now, we can barely get him to keep his head above water! We love the individualized attention that the SNUGS program provides and we have seen improvement in his comfort level, focus, and self-confidence. He now loves going to swim lessons and is becoming stronger and more relaxed in the water. Thank you, SNUGS! ”
-Sharon O.
“ SNUGS has been absolutely wonderful for my special needs child. He is a ‘regular’ and is always so excited to attend his swimming lessons. He loves the water and his chance to have social interaction with his swimming instructor. He always looks forward to SNUGS. ”
-Karen
“ My son Zakarai loves to swim but benefits from a mentor/helper. Megan and the team at SNUGS @ Yale are amazing. The instructors/student mentors are enthusiastic, friendly, and patient. They make each child feel special regardless of disability or ability. Go SNUGS! ”
-Mark Schneider
“ My son with Down Syndrome loves to be in the water. SNUGS not only helped him relax but also learn to kick, blow bubbles and make those first steps to learn to swim. Thank you so much for all the volunteers who provided this calming and loving environment. ”
-Yudilyn
“ SNUGS has made a difference in our lives. For my son to receive one-on-one instruction has been a blessing. The instructor was fabulous with him! My son has learned so much, and through play. “
-Daisy
“ At my daughter’s first session with SNUGS, she got as far as sitting with her feet in the pool. A 3 yr old on the spectrum, she was so scared of the water. Over a short period of time, she's progressed from sitting by the pool, to clinging to her teachers neck, to being able to hold a kickboard and kick across the pool. Besides teaching her swimming skills, this program has taught her to have courage and be brave. Now she loves to ‘swim.’ The teachers at SNUGS are patient, kind, and caring. I am so grateful for this program. “
-Vanessa
“ SNUGS is a wonderful program. I have a 15 yr old with Autism that didn’t know how to swim at all. He is definitely getting better with the help of the Yale students. They have patience and stay right next to the kids. That's what made me feel good about it. Everyone is wonderful in the program, and it’s very well organized. Can't wait to see everyone again! “
-Jennifer
“ SNUGS has given confidence and a home for my grandchild. He is not afraid of the water and feels safe to swim on his own. I am grateful for the young swim trainers for their patience and the time they spend to give these special kids confidence. These young trainers are the best. May God always keep them safe. Looking forward to classes again! “
-G
“ This program is a godsend! My daughter is a flight risk and loves the water. She has disappeared for lengthy periods of time, and it's terrifying. She absolutely loves her time with SNUGS! The instructors are amazing with her. They manage to engage her in play with whatever excites her that day, while teaching her to be safe in the water. I can't praise this program enough! Thank you, SNUGS! ”
-Katie Kenney O'Shaughnessey
“ It has truly been a pleasure to work with all of the staff in this program. My son thoroughly enjoyed his experiences and looked forward to them each and every time. As a parent of a special needs child it is always a struggle and anxiety-provoking for me to find programs that eagerly work with, have a willingness to understand your child, and give you child experiences that all children yearn for. Thank you for providing that for my little guy! ”
-Nikkina
“ The SNUGS program has been amazing thus far for my son! It’s wonderful that the students volunteer their time to work with special needs individuals. We can't wait to start back up! ”
-Jessica L.
“ My daughter has enjoyed working with the student teachers. They have given her the confidence to become a stronger swimmer! ”
-Anonymous
“ There's not a lot a programs for children with Autism here in New Haven, so my daughter Nahla never had any outside activities to participate in until SNUGS. “
-Latoya
“ Despite only being able to participate in half of the scheduled sessions given the current health crisis, our family loved the opportunity and we cannot wait until the next session! It's as if we are part of a family, and Sam has gathered so many skills as a beginner. I believe this has opened a door for him to learn fine and gross motor skills moving forward! “
-Amy