Adapted Physical Education

Definition: Adapted Physical Education (APE) may be offered to students with gross motor delays or other disability-related difficulties that make them unable to participate productively in a regular physical education class. An Adapted Physical Education class will usually be taught by someone with a background in physical therapy who can adjust the activities so that they will be appropriate, safe, and therapeutic for each individual student. The class may take place in a gym where regular education students are also having classes, and the teacher may facilitate appropriate interaction between the classes. In order to get APE for your child, request that it be put in his or her IEP, and be prepared to justify the need for adaptation. The Web site PE Central is a good place to visit for more information on APE. http://specialchildren.about.com/od/specialeducation/g/APE.htm Programs in adapted physical education are presented preceded by a background of services for the handicapped, by the psychosocial implications of disability, and by the growth and development of the handicapped. Elements of conducting programs discussed are organization and administration, class organization, facilities, exercise programs (selection, assignment, and teaching), an exercise for tension reduction, and adapted games and sports. Problems of specific disabilities and programs for the unfit which are considered are the following: posture malalignment, cardiovascular disorders, musculoskeletal disorders (acute, chronic, and congenital), mental retardation, emotional disturbances, sensory disorders, neurological and other disorders, and adult fitness and aging. Also included are photographs, a glossary, and four appendixes with exercise diagrams. (JM) Abstractor:N/A