Project Ocean Therapy Unites Families with Unique Water Adventures
On a sunny Saturday morning at Siloso Beach, a group of participants gathered, armed with Stand-Up Paddle (SUP) boards. Among them were children and teens with autism, ready to embark on a meaningful journey with Project Ocean Therapy (POT).
A Programme That Empowers
Since its inception in 2018, POT has provided autistic youth and their families with a supportive environment to bond and grow through water sports. Run by Andrew Choo’s team from Grace Mission, supported by SUP Ventures Singapore, the initiative connects participants with nature and promotes social integration.
Every Saturday, participants engage in SUP sessions, where the challenges of balancing on the water become milestones of achievement. For some, such as 19-year-old Hong Yang Chong, progress has been slow but deeply rewarding. Chong, who has high-support needs and limited verbal communication, took seven months to stand on the board, a moment his family celebrated as a significant triumph.
Caregivers Bonding Through Shared Experiences
Parents like Stephanie Lee, whose son Jonas Teo has autism, find POT invaluable. The programme not only provides Jonas with an outlet to build friendships and confidence but also fosters a community of understanding among parents.
“Here, we’re surrounded by people who truly understand,” Lee shared. “It’s a place where parents can bond, share experiences, and support one another.”
Teo, who initially struggled with social interactions, has since formed connections with other participants and volunteers. His favourite volunteer, Niki, became a close friend, underscoring the power of these relationships to extend beyond the programme.
Physical and Emotional Growth
The physical benefits of SUP are also evident. For Chong, the sessions have improved his strength and motor skills, which his mother, Wei Ping, observed in his basketball performance. Activities like throwing a ball have become easier, translating progress on the water to other aspects of his life.
Paddling for Awareness
To sustain the programme and raise autism awareness, POT will host SUP21km on April 30, 2022. Inspired by Chong’s growth, participants, including volunteers and family members, will paddle 21km, with autistic children and youth joining for the final stretch.
Project Ocean Therapy exemplifies how inclusive activities can inspire confidence, nurture abilities, and create lasting bonds, proving that the journey of self-discovery and growth is as rewarding as the destination.
