SPORTS

SHOULD BE INCLUSIVE TOO!

BY LAUREN AGORATUS, M.A.

It is often challenging for children and their families, youth, and self-advocates to find adaptive sports. It may be even harder for venues to be found with inclusive opportunities in the community.

WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES?

From a strictly health standpoint, people with disabilities are more likely to be obese and suffer from preventable comorbid conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease. According to the CDC (Centers on Disease Control and Prevention), 20% of children with special healthcare needs are obese.1 The AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) notes disability as a risk factor for obesity.2 In addition the AAP has policy guidelines on the benefits of exercise for people with disabilities3 such as:

➢ Better lung capacity

➢ Increased muscle strength

➢ Less isolation

➢ Increased social skills through interaction with others

➢ Better sleep quality

➢ Improved academic performance

➢ Improved mental health, well-being, and self-esteem

INCLUSIVE SPORTS

Children and adults with disabilities should be included in their communities, and that means recreational activities as well. Although there are sports leagues just for people with disabilities, the movement is now towards inclusive sports with peers without disabilities.

FINDING INCLUSIVE RECREATIONAL PROGRAMS

Some programs, like those in California and Georgia, provide inclusive sports but only in their state. California has E-Sports (Exceptional Sports) which is inclusive and has programs in dance, soccer, basketball, and martial arts (see Resources). Georgia has AdaptED Sports Programs which are also inclusive in collaboration with school districts.

There are many other inclusive sports programs that are available nationally. Some of these originated from sports for children without disabilities, while others began as programs solely for children with disabilities and then expanded. Challenger Little League is inclusive baseball with peer mentors. Miracle League is another accessible baseball program where children with disabilities play alongside nondisabled peers.

Although there are sports leagues just for people with disabilities, the movement is now towards inclusive sports