Adaptation Strategies

Theoretical Constructs Adaptation Theory – The concept that many activities will only be accessible to children with disabilities if adapted. Normalization Theory – The idea that children with disabilities should be afforded the same opportunities in life as their same-aged peers.

Theoretical Constructs Self-determination theory – The belief that individuals with disabilities should be provided with choices, creating autonomy over their own lives. Empowerment theory – The theory that when individuals with disabilities take advantage of the choices given whenever possible, empowerment will become intrinsic.

Equipment Implements – Sticks, Paddles, Bats, Rackets, Scoops Targets – Wall, Floor, Bases, Goals, Nets, Containers, Free Standing Manipulatives – Balls, Pucks, Shuttles, Sport related balls, Objects, Beachballs, Balloons, Stuffed animals, Cubes, Batons, Streamers Assistive Devices – Sound or light sources,

Equipment Adaptations decrease injury, increase success Size – larger smaller Length/Width/Height – shorter, lower, wider Weight – lighter heavier Grip – larger, smaller, softer, molded Composition/texture – foam, fleece, plastic Color – many colors, contrast

Spaces Fields - outdoors Courts – outdoors or indoors Boundaries - around a space Rooms – classroom, stage, cafeteria, Playground – outside (cement or blacktop)

Space Adaptations Height, ceiling or wall Length and width of field or court Increase or decrease boundaries, markers, type Designate space or boundary for an individual Surface change, lighting, temperature. Reduce visual or auditory distractions Reduce objects/equipment in the space Color and contrast - walls, outside space, sun,

Coordination Skills – Locomotor, Nonlocomotor, Manipulative (strike, catch, throw) Abilities - Balance, strength, endurance, flexibility Game Play – Strategies Players – Number, Positions, Teams, Partners, Individuals Rules – How the activity or game occurs.

Change Coordination Requirements Use a closed skill before an open skill Change game or activity rules Change the time limit Use a stationary or moving position Decrease accuracy Decrease speed, force, distance Change the strategy

Adaptation Checklist Is the adaptation safe? Does the modification maintain the concept of the game? Was the child included in the adaptation and does she or he embrace the concept? Is the game still age-appropriate? Is the child still included successfully?

Checklist cont. Does the adaptation provide a challenge? Does the adaptation address class goals or IEP goals? Does the adaptation alienate the child from the rest of the class Could the adaptation be minimized or eliminated?