I wanted to ask a question about PE and kids with learning disabilities. Is there any research or resources about the best methods to coach students with dyslexia or other learning disabilities and to help them learn individual and team skills the most effective way?
Students with learning disabilities and ADHD can often struggle with motor control, movement, rhythm and directionality (i.e., telling right from left), which can make certain physical activities in gym class or team sports challenging. Motor challenges can also affect academic performance as they can hinder writing and other activities. Additionally, recent research has led some researchers to conclude that there is a link between poor sense of rhythm and dyslexia.
Given the links between learning disorders and motor coordination, it is an excellent idea to think about how to address these issues within gym class or as part of a team sport. It might be a good idea to check out information about adaptive PE(opens in a new window) (or speak to an adaptive PE teacher if your school or district has one) for some ideas on activities.
Another option is one that has been discussed by parents and caregivers on our forums — using video games as rhythm, sensory integration and directionality training(opens in a new window). A number of individuals with ADHD and learning disabilities have some success using Interactive Metronome (IM(opens in a new window), a computer-based training program used by therapists to help improve coordination, timing and attention.
Some parents and therapists have found that children who do well with IM also seem to do well with video games like Dance Dance Revolution(opens in a new window) and the interactive sports games on the Wii Fit(opens in a new window). While the use of these types of games with kids with LD and ADHD is fairly new, anecdotally it seems to be helpful for some students. As many schools are starting to purchase the Wii Fit for use with their students, it might be an idea to try.
Video games are often inherently motivating for young people, and may encourage them to try different activities. Each of these games tells players how to move using a combination of visual and auditory cues in addition to watching movement on screen. These cues may help students who struggle with movement and directionality.
Note from LD OnLine: See other expert answers about Accommodations and Modifications.