Fragile X Syndrome: Implications for Physical Education

Authors

  • Chad Nichols
  • Dani Almarode

Keywords:

Fragile X Syndrome, inclusion, physical education

Abstract

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is a rare genetic disorder, affecting 1 in every 3,600 that causes intellectual disability, behavioral and learning challenges, and various physical characteristics such as flat feet, double-jointed fingers, and hyperflexible joints.  Many of the characteristics of FXS, such as hand flapping, poor eye contact, and sensory disorders resemble autism.  FXS, similar to autism, affects more males than females.  Common characteristics such as attention deficit, aggression toward others, and sensory disorders may make including students with FXS in physical education a challenge. However, individuals with FXS are usually included in physical education (PE) and teachers need to be able to include such children in their PE classes. The purpose of this practical article is to provide PE teachers background information on FXS as well as practical implications for including those with FXS in physical education.

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Published

2019-08-22

Issue

Section

Feature Articles