A Position Statement on Including Students with Disabilities in Physical Education

Overview & Synopsis

A strong preference within IDEA (the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) is that children with disabilities are educated in neighborhood schools and general education classrooms (including physical education) whenever appropriate. Consequently, the general physical education class should be considered as the first physical education placement option. This paper discusses some background information of least restrictive environment (LRE) as it applies to physical education, and then presents the official position of the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (AAHPERD) regarding LRE in physical education and the procedures and policies schools should adopt in developing physical education plans for children with disabilities. Answers to some frequently asked questions and a list of resources for more information are included. (Contains 1 figure and 1 chart.) [This paper was developed by a team of professionals from the Adapted Physical Activity Council and represents the position of the American Association for Active Lifestyles and Fitness (AAALF), a member organization of the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (AAHPERD).]