❊ Testimonials
Loved by Kids, Trusted by Parents
Seriously! But don’t take our word for it, here are some things people have to say about us.
As a parent of a neurodivergent child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and ADHD, finding the right swimming program was not easy.
Despite starting lessons as a baby, my child struggled significantly in traditional group settings.
Engagement was difficult, sensory-seeking behaviours (particularly under the water) weren’t well understood, and we were eventually advised that only one-on-one lessons would be suitable, an option that simply wasn’t financially sustainable for our family.
Everything changed when we found Starfish Swim.
From the very beginning, the team demonstrated patience, understanding, and genuine knowledge of neurodivergent needs. Instead of focusing on limitations, they focused on connection. They took the time to understand why certain behaviours were happening including recognising that breath-holding under water was an ASD-related trait rather than simply non-compliance.
When my child began, he could barely swim independently, despite years of lessons elsewhere. Through consistency, skill, and inclusive teaching strategies, he gradually built confidence, water safety awareness, and technical ability.
Today, he can confidently swim from one side of the pool to the other. His stroke continues to develop, but the progress has been extraordinary.
Beyond the physical skills, what has mattered most is the confidence and safety he now feels in the water.
He still finds mainstream school swimming programs challenging due to their structure and limited ability to provide individualised support. The difference in outcomes highlights just how important experienced, neuro-affirming instructors are.
Starfish Swim has provided not only swimming skills, but empowerment, understanding, and a program where my child feels capable.
For families navigating ASD, ADHD, or sensory needs, finding the right environment makes all the difference.
We are incredibly grateful for the support and professionalism shown throughout our journey.
— Parent Testimonial
Starfish Swim Group has been amazing for my 3 children with disabilities.
Donna is so passionate about this group, and more importantly giving children with special needs a place to belong, a place to be themselves and feel welcomed, supported and respected. She engages with every single child, parent/carer.
Tanya the swim teacher is so knowledgeable and engaging with all
Kids and parents/careers. Tanya makes the kids feel comfortable, listened too and’s gives them the tools to be safe in the pool.
As parents we feel so lucky our kids have the opportunity to learn how to swim properly without stigma but with friendship.
— Parent Testimonial
I first met Donna Rousham while I was at a supermarket shopping with my then 5-year-old grandson Aarden, who has cerebral palsy. Donna approached me and we talked about Aarden, and she asked if he would like to learn swimming.
I passed her details onto Aarden parents who subsequently contacted Donna and Aarden started in the Starfish swim program. Aarden is now 13 years old. Over the years as Aardens confidence has grown, his wonderful swimming coach Tania gradually and gently increased his performance and ability. Her methods of training and instruction are well paced and suited to his ability, all the while encouraging him to push the boundaries of what he can do.
Of all the sports options we have tried over the years, the swim program is the only one that Aarden has been able to be successful in and has been completely supportive of him.
I have spoken to Donna at length over the years and have found her to be a tireless advocate for any person with a disability and her voluntary unpaid work for the swimming program is amazing.
We have maintained contact with Donna during Aardens various treatment requirements where he has travelled to Adelaide for surgery or therapy. Upon his return he is always welcomed back into the program, and for this we will be eternally grateful. His latest surgery has been particularly gruelling and his weekly swimming lesson is playing an essential role in his rehabilitation.
On a personal level, I have always found Donna to be helpful, pleasant, and professional in her dealing with my family and Aarden. She has worked so long and hard for people with disabilities I do not know where she gets the energy and will to continue her amazing voluntary work.
— Grandparent Testimonial (Gillian Palmer)
"Starfish swim group provides invaluable swimming and water safety lessons to children with special needs and 'differ-abilities'. The nurture and care provided by Donna and Tania allows families the opportunity to get children in the water and swimming, where it is otherwise challenging and next to impossible with regular swim groups. My oldest daughter successfully learnt to love the water and swim thanks to Donna and Tania. Autism spectrum disorder and sensitivity to water posed major sensory overload which I never thought we would overcome. Ten years later, my youngest daughter with cerebral palsy now enjoys the water and swimming lessons with Donna and Tania. Starfish swim group made the difference for my girls where they may have otherwise missed out with regular swim groups. I am forever grateful!!"
— Parent Testimonial (Meridith)
Hi Donna and Tania,
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the two of you for the work you have put into Kalan. This learn to swim program has helped Kalan to develop and grow, not just as a swimmer but in his journey through life as an ASD kid.
It has also helped myself as parent to bond with Kalan and for me to understand him better. This program has helped us so much.
Once again, from the bottom of my heart, thank you for all you have done.
Regards
Kain B.
Scott started Starfish when he was just turned 2 years old, could not walk or swim although he had been introduced to a swimming pool, it is the best program for our kids to learn, he would physically strain to keep his head above water, however with patience and learning he soon changed that and then we had to remind him to come up to breathe. He continued to learn different strokes and of course safety and feels extremely comfortable in any pool now, as he got older the Squad training was introduced which he absolutely loved as it was a little competitive with others in the same age group. He is now almost 15 and we are forever grateful that this program existed while he was growing up, thanks Starfish!
— Jane Gordon (Parent Testimonial)
My ASD son has been a part of this swim group for over 2 years now and the growth I’ve seen has been amazing to watch! When he first started, he was hesitant and refused to put his head under the water. Now he’s so much more confident – even putting his head under the water!
What makes this program so special is the individual care and understanding shown for each child. Tania is an absolute super star of an instructor! Her patience, calm approach and genuine heart for children with additional needs create a safe and encouraging environment where kids can truly thrive at their own pace! She knows how to gently stretch them beyond their comfort zones while always making them feel safe!
This swim group is so much more than lessons in the pool. It offers something that is sorely needed in Darwin which is a swim group for kids with special needs – kids who don’t do well in mainstream settings and I love that my son gets that one-one-one attention. Not only that but It builds confidence, independence and life-saving skills. I am so incredibly grateful for the positive impact it has had on my son. I would highly recommend this program to any family looking for a supportive and specialised environment for their child. Thank you so much to the Starfish family, sooo grateful to Donna and Tania!
— Jen Davies (Parent Testimonial)