Sports for individuals with physical disabilities have made tremendous strides over the last 30 years. In 1985 para-athlete Rick Hansen trekked around the globe to raise money and awareness in his “Man in Motion” tour that raised millions of dollars and inspired a hit song. In the last Olympic Games we witnessed a bilateral amputee run in the 400m semifinals. But there are other individuals who have unseen disabilities; spanning from learning disorders to attention deficit to Asperger’s syndrome and to autism who also look to get in the game.
These individuals benefit from sports as everyone else. The social environment of sports, the challenges of competition and the learning of healthy lifestyles are important for everyone. For children with disabilities it can improve social skills, self – confidence and acceptance. Coaches, parents and organizers need to be aware of that there are no physical signs of learning challenges but should consider them in establishing an inclusive sporting experience.
Some children with extreme communication and interaction difficulties such as severe autism usually can excel in individual sports such as cycling, swimming, sailing or karate, where the emphasis is on self directed skills. Where most other children with learning or communication challenge can enjoy team and individual sports fully. In both these situations it is the attitude of the coaches, parents and organizers that will ensure success.
Instructors should take the time to identify and focus on what proficiencies the child has and use this as a platform to develop other skills. Find out what the athlete enjoys, their interests and objectives. Develop a plan to engage the child into the program.
Instructions may need to be adapted to ensure that there are fewer distractions. Consider using demonstration more than verbal instruction. Avoid information overload by breaking down the lesson and skills into smaller pieces.
When communicating be sure to have eye contact and pace yourself. Keep explanations concise and be prepared to repeat if necessary. Try to organize games and practice into a structured routine to improve familiarity and decrease anxiety of the unknown. In team sport environment ensure that all the members of the team are given an opportunity to thrive and acceptance by all team members is expected.
All children enjoy and benefit from sports. Coaches and organizers need to be pro active in creating a sporting environment for all.