| If getting kids to exercise is a challenge, working with a | | | | is knowing how to keep your child physically active. |
| disabled child can sometimes be even more | | | | A 1998 study done by Emory University and the |
| challenging. But, depending on the type of disability, | | | | University of Georgia found that children who exercise |
| there are various opportunities to making sure a child | | | | regularly develop strength, coordination and flexibility. |
| with disabilities is physically active. | | | | Kids Exercise improves a child's academics, behavior |
| Communities and schools often fail when it comes to | | | | and social interaction and decreases the likelihood of |
| responding to children with special needs. Instead, a | | | | depression. In addition, as children become more active, |
| growing number of organizations, such as the | | | | secondary health complications decrease. |
| American Association of Adapted Sports Programs | | | | For these reasons, exercise for a handicapped child is |
| and the Paralympics, are stepping up to the plate. | | | | just as important, if not more, than exercise for a child |
| They're dedicated to getting kids with handicaps | | | | without disabilities. If you're not sure what type of |
| involved in physical activities. Other nonprofit | | | | exercises your child can participate in, talk to their |
| organizations include Sports for Kids Foundation, | | | | doctor, school PE teacher, a specialist, or contact a |
| Council for Exceptional Children (CEC), Our Kids and | | | | local nonprofit organization such as the ones listed |
| Ronald McDonald House Charities. | | | | above. |
| While exercising with other kids who have similar | | | | Each child with special needs requires unique |
| handicaps may be encouraging to a child and beneficial | | | | treatment, so knowing the best exercises for your |
| on many levels, it's not always necessary to enroll | | | | child is crucial. Educating yourself with such information |
| children in such groups. Exercise can also be done | | | | is valuable for their health, both physically and mentally. |
| within the home, with the parents as coaches. The key | | | | |