Across the nation, adapted physical education is moving children with disabilities off the sidelines, in physical education classes. Adapted physical education is an individualized program of physical and motor fitness; fundamental motor skills and patterns; and skills in aquatics, dance and individual and group games and sports designed to meet the unique needs of individuals (Winnick, 2000). It is generally designed to meet long-term (greater than 30 days), unique needs of students with disabilities (Winnick, 2000). Classes are provided by a regular physical education teacher or by a full-time adapted physical education teacher. Adapted physical education provides students with the opportunity to participate in a regular physical education program.
In addition, after-school sports programs for physically disabled or visually impaired youth are developing through the efforts of organizations including Project ASPIRE (Adapted Sports Programs In Recreation and Education). Through Project ASPIRE, the American Association of Adapted Sports' Programs (AAASP) joins forces with leading authorities in sport and physical fitness to lay the foundation for a network of school-based adapted athletic programs across the United States.
Many cities are offering adaptive recreation classes and sports such as basketball, baseball, softball, bowling, and tennis. Local parks and recreation departments have more information on city adaptive recreation options. Students with disabilities also need to participate equally in other after-school activities, such as 4-H, Scouting, the arts, and other enriching experiences.