The connection between swimming with dolphins and greater contact with the outside world hasn't been proven, but some people believe that there is a special connection between autistic children and dolphins that can't be denied, according to the program's supporters.
SeaWorld has opened up its Dip Or Dolphin interaction program to a group of autistic kids and their siblings.
Autism is a condition that impacts sensory organs speech and language. Five-year-old Bridger was at the park Friday to support his brother, Colin, who suffers from the condition.
"He is my friend," Bridger said of his brother.
Stephanie Vingoe is a tutor with ACES -- Autism Comprehensive Educational Services -- located in Hillcrest. She said that through play, children can improve their language and people skills.
"We just found that the dolphins are great motivators for our kids," she said. "We get the interaction of the dolphin as the reinforce or just the verbal praise that we would give in a classroom."
Vingoe said she believes that the effect that dolphins have on autistic children is almost magical.
A morning swim with dolphins is not cure for autism, but Vingoe said that it does put kids on the right track to leading a more normal life.
"It's
not a cure. It's just another aspect of the different treatments that are out
there," she said.
Nicholas Brady also participates in the program. He wouldn't even get in the water the first time he met the dolphins. On his second time around, however, and with a little bit of help from his sister, Chelsea, he's no different than any other child having the time of his life.
"It makes me feel really good," Chelsea Brady said. "I just want to help him get cured, that's all."
If you would like to find out more about the program, visit their
ACES Web site, or write
them at:
3731 6th Avenue
Suite 100
San Diego, CA 92103
You can also call (619) 278-0884.