Parents of Children with Visual Impairments and Additional Disabilities Perceptions on Physical Education

Authors

  • Pamela Beach State University of New York Brockport
  • Lauren J. Lieberman State University of New York Brockport
  • Michelle Grenier University of New Hampshire

Abstract

Many physical education teachers and teachers of students with visual impairments have difficulty including children with visual impairment and additional disabilities. The lack of appropriate opportunities by teachers places this burden on parents to be more involved in their child’s physical education programming. Parents can be key stakeholders in helping their children know the solutions to the barriers to involvement in physical activity and sports. As a result of parental involvement in their child’s physical education, the child’s motor competence may improve. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the perceptions of parents with children with visual impairments and additional disabilities regarding their child’s physical education. A survey was developed and validated by experts in the field. The analyses of this mixed methods survey included frequency analyses of the quantitative data and themes from the open-ended questions. Seventy-four parents/guardians with children with visual impairment including moderate to severe disabilities participated. Parental responses indicated that most children were provided physical education services; however, only 50% are satisfied with their child’s physical education experiences. While most parents indicated they were actively involved with their child’s programming, many barriers and support needs indicated a dire need for more training to support both parents and educators of youth with visual impairments and additional disabilities.

Published

2024-05-20

Issue

Section

Feature Articles