Sports and physically impaired children
All children benefit from sports and physical activity, and children with physical impairments are no exception. However, due to their disabilities, these children face considerable challenges when it comes to participating in sports.
For a child in a wheelchair or with limited use of their arms or legs, there are few opportunities to participate in many of the leisure and sports activities of their able-bodied peers. They may require special equipment or other assistance, and often tire easily.
For a child that is blind or partially-sighted, sports are often considered impractical or even dangerous by parents. Deaf children face communication barriers with their teammates, coaches and officials.
At school, these children are often chosen last for sports teams or simply left out of the activity altogether. As a result, children with disabilities tend to lack confidence, have lower levels of fitness, and are more at risk for obesity.
“Participating in adapted sports makes me feel like I belong. I’ve played wheelchair basketball, wheelchair tennis, horseback riding, and luge hockey. This has shown me that despite my disability, I can be active.”
Pamela, 15 years old