Autistic kids get chance to surf

WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH — Some 160 families showed up at Wrightsville Beach Thursday morning so kids with autism could learn how to catch a wave.

Stacy Coleman has two autistic children who took part in the surfers healing camp. Coleman says the camp gives kids with autism a sense of empowerment they might not otherwise feel.

She says it’s also a bonding experience for families with have autistic children.

“I know that my kids can lay down on the sand and start kicking and screaming and having a meltdown and no one here is going to look at me and say why can’t you control your kid? Because the parents here understand,” Coleman said.

The kids were taken out to ride the waves with experienced surfers. They also wore life vests for added safety.