Perceptions of parents of students with Down syndrome regarding physical education programs

Abstract

Research indicates many barriers to health enhancing physical activity for students with Down syndrome (DS). In addition, low levels of fitness and motor skills are documented along with high incidence of obesity among those with DS. There is a lack of research regarding parent perceptions of their child's physical education program. An online survey examined parent perceptions of their child's physical education program. Questions included demographics and inquiries about the child's physical education program. Results indicated that only 58.3% of students with DS had physical education on their IEP and only 50% of IEP meetings had physical education teacher representation. The most common current and preferred physical education placement among parents was a combination of both general and adapted physical education and least common was general physical education without assistance. Parents were least satisfied with communication from their child's physical education teacher and most satisfied with their child's physical safety in physical education. Emotional/social skills were found to be the greatest benefits of physical education and sport-specific skills the lowest. Significant differences were found regarding the overall physical education program and satisfaction with the child's paraeducator if physical education was on the IEP.