Sensory Swim Hour
Join our free Sensory Swim Hour every Saturday at JCC Greater Boston. Designed for individuals with autism and sensory needs, supported by the NLM Family Foundation in partnership with Autism Welcoming.
A Calmer Swim Experience Designed with Sensory Sensitivity in Mind
Saturdays & Sundays | 3–4pm | Open to All Ages
JCC Greater Boston is proud to offer our new Sensory Swim Hour, a weekly program that provides a supportive, low-sensory environment for individuals with autism and other sensory needs to enjoy our indoor pool. This free program, supported by the NLM Family Foundation and offered in partnership with Autism Welcoming prioritizes comfort, safety, and relaxation for participants and their families.
Every Saturday and Sunday from 3–4 PM, our indoor pool transforms into a calm and welcoming space just for you. This dedicated hour is designed for individuals who prefer a quieter swimming experience—free from busy swim programs and overwhelming sensory input. Enjoy the water at your own pace with access to sensory-friendly pool equipment, including therapy noodles, fidgets, kickboards, and water-resistant headphones. Whether you're floating, splashing, or simply relaxing, you’ll feel safe, supported, and at ease.
What to Expect
To make your visit as smooth and welcoming as possible, we offer the following accommodations:
- Email Upon Registration – You'll receive a confirmation email with key details about the facility.
- Visual "STOP" Signs – Posted on certain doors to help navigate the space with ease.
- Clear Signage – Signage will indicate that a Sensory Swim is in progress for privacy and comfort.
- Staff Identification – Lifeguards, Aquatics Managers, and Front Desk Staff will wear Autism-Friendly badges for easy identification.
Facility Preview Video
See the path from our entrance to the locker rooms and pool in advance:
Other helpful resources include our Sensory Swim Rules and a Social Story for individuals who may need it:
Our Facilities
We believe every swimmer deserves to feel safe, supported, and comfortable while learning. Our Leventhal-Sidman Center in Newton is thoughtfully equipped to meet the needs of individuals of all abilities.
Our facility includes:
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- ADA-compliant restrooms
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- Elevator access to all areas of the building
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- Private changing rooms for individuals or families, with or without a caregiver
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- A hydraulic lift for safe and supported pool entry and exit
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- Sound-dampening panels around the indoor pool to help reduce noise and support swimmers with sensory sensitivities
Every aspect of our space is designed to create a calm and inclusive environment for learning and growth.
About Autism Welcoming
This program, run by Advocates and Autism Alliance, partners with businesses and individuals to create a welcoming and accessible community for people with autism and their families. They’re making things easier for families by helping businesses become sensory responsive and autism welcoming.
About The Nancy Lurie Marks Family Foundation
The NLM Family Foundation, which supports autism science, services, policy, and public awareness, awards grants and backs initiatives like the Lurie Autism Institute, the Lurie Center for Autism, and global autism awareness projects, which are aimed at better understanding autism, expanding support, and promoting more inclusive systems.
Upcoming Sessions
Sensory Swim FAQs
Do I need to be a JCC member to attend?
This program is open to members and non-members at no cost! However, advance registration is required.
Will there be a lot of people at the pool?
As of now, registration is capped at ten participants to ensure the pool remains uncrowded and everyone feels comfortable in the space.
Who can participate in Sensory Swim Hour?
This hour is for individuals of all ages with autism or other sensory sensitivities, along with their families or caregivers.
Are staff trained in autism support?
Yes, our aquatics staff are Autism Welcoming certified and can be identified by their Autism-Friendly badges. Don’t hesitate to go up to them with any questions!
Can I bring my own water equipment or flotation devices?
Yes, but please check with staff to ensure the items meet pool safety standards.
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