Tips for Children with Disabilities

Marie Edgemon, Adaptive P.E specialist, advises that there are a large variety of different disabilities and the child's physician approval and the parents approval should be required before inclusion in the program. The parents should be consulted whenever possible and their guidance be used. The parent or guardian will be your best source of information about their child's particular needs.

General tips are to provide an alternate activity for a child that cannot participate in a particular drill or game. Obstacle courses that can be done on pavement involving navigating cones or other obstacles that can be "gone around" rather than over are certainly possible.

Ask a child, prior to assisting, if they would like help in an area they may be struggling.

Consult with or include the Adaptive P.E. specialist when possible.

Providing a fairly level surface for activities will insure more active participation.

Be aware of weather or particular heat related issues as they may effect certain activities and disabilities such as Multiple Sclerosis in different ways.