Strong Foundations

06/05/2026

06/03/2026

It’s with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Spanky, one of Mystic Aquarium’s beloved harbor seals. Spanky was 27 years old and called Mystic Aquarium his home for 19 of those years. A favorite among staff and guests, he was a gentle animal who quickly mastered new training behaviors. Even in his later years, Spanky remained engaged and curious, enjoying foraging enrichment, learning new behaviors, and helping his care team create meaningful educational experiences for guests. For more than two decades, Spanky helped inspire appreciation for marine life and brought joy to everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He was well-loved by all who knew him during his long life and will be deeply missed by many.

05/21/2026

Swimming lessons are an important part of autism safety. 💦🛟

Many children and adults with autism are drawn to water, and wandering can become dangerous very quickly. Pools, ponds, lakes, creeks, canals, fountains, retention basins, and nearby bodies of water should always be checked immediately if someone is missing.

Water safety should include layers of protection: close supervision, barriers and locks, alarms, swim instruction, emergency planning, and making sure caregivers, neighbors, and first responders know to search water first.

For families with autism, swim lessons should be individualized and may need to include practice with clothes and shoes on, since emergencies do not always happen during swim time.

Learn more from NAA’s water safety resources. Link in comments.