The Forgotten Children

I wanted to take a minute and talk about something that is dear to my heart and that is special needs children. I am an advocate for all children with special needs. As parents we know that physical actibity and fitness is important for our children. But often parents and other professionals fail to see the same importance to get their special needs child into physical activitys or programmes. Maybe they are worried their child might get teased, maybe they think that physically their child cannot do it. But these children need to be physical just as any other child does. I work in a programme that does just this, help all special needs children reach their physical potenial. Whether the child has a learning disorder, autism, cerebral palsy, or even downs, there are activities these children can engage in. It is soooo important to get these children activities for several reasons. Firstly it boosts their self esteem. Being able to do something physical they didnt think they could, or were told they couldnt, boosts their confidence about what they can do. During some research I did on this very subject for a course I took this year, the research had indicated that given the opprtunity to participate in physical activities or programmes greatly promoted a higher self esteem and a feeling that they were just like their typically developing peers. The fact they are participating even if they cant do all the requirements of the sport or activity is also a huge esteem booster. Think how many times these children are forced to sit on the sidelines and watch their peers, and are not included in the activities. This exclusion makes them feel ostracized. 60% of disabled children reported that they seldom or never play games with their friends in their free time. The benefit of being able to participate will actually promote social development in these children. Research indicates that one of the most important things to a child for quality of life is having friends and being included socially. Just think how just being included can bolster your special needs child's esteem.
Another great benefit of promoting physical activity in  special needs children is that it promotes strength and physical development in areas that may be weak. By using modified activities, the child can gain strength and muscle development in areas that may be lacking, and may even find physical skills they are good at. Children may learn better coordination skills, develop better fine and gross motor skills, and may learn better skills to help them in every day life. Cognitive skills are also developed in special needs children when they are involved in physical activity. It can help with executive functioning skills such as helping attention and impusle control, it promotes the growth of neurons in the brain which is important in cognitive skills like attention, planning, etc.
So just remember that the benefits of physical activity is also beneficial to special needs children. Check your local areas for programmes, or get your kids involved in activities, you will make and notice a huge difference in your childs life.