inclusion

Since this forum deals with learning disabilities (which *doesn’t* equal mental retardation), I’ll begin by saying that most kids w/LD have no trouble in PE (they have some writing/reading issues in Health class, though). Sometimes younger kids have directional challenges and coordinative issues.

For some kids w/LD’s in the non-language areas, they can have a difficult time following verbal instruction for body movements *or* even seeing a film and then putting their bodies through those same movements. You model, they don’t do what they have seen you do. Those kids may have to feel how their body moves into a position—you may have to physically help them move their body into a position or positions.

Sometimes rules and difficult to remember. More redirection—fewer steps.

A kid could have LD *and* a physical disability but the two are totally unrelated unless it came about as a brain injury—then the label should be traumatic brain injury (TBI) and not LD.

I always recommend accessing all helpful information….There will be an IEP for a special needs child, which will include the child’s abilities, goals, and necessary accomodations. For PE, get information on the child’s sensory-motor issues in particular. Discuss the activities and the environment with any occupational or physical therapist involved with a child. Some children with sensory integration issues may have difficulty with the echo in a gym, lots of kids running around, the use of loud music… it can lead to avoidance or other problematic behavior. Cognitive and language deficits may also impact on the child’s ability to follow directions and rules. Difficulties in social interaction- such as those presented by a child on the autistic spectrum, will impact on turn-taking and cooperation. However, that doesn’t mean that you steer away from cooperative activities- they need a lot of practice and guidance. I’ll tell you one tip for all PE- don’t let kids pick their own teams! I was always picked last and it was so painful. I think it’s probably helpful to shift away from competitive sports, but maybe that’s because I hated them myself. You may have to adapt rules, expectations, and equipment so that the child has success. Typical kids usually understand if that’s dealt with in a straightforward and sensitive manner. Flexibility and creativity are keys to working with special needs children in any setting. Have fun…

Go JH! I am a mother of an LD fifth grader. He has fine and gross motor delays along with sensory integration difficulties. He is very low on self esteem in part because he cannot do things to hte level that his peers can. He was thrilled and very proud (Mom and Dad too) last spring as he ran the 1 mile run without stopping and it only took him 16 min. to do it! I think getting all the kids to participate together, being aware of any teasing and making it fun(for some moving and planning movement is not fun or easy) are the most important things. Encourage often!