Physical Education and Physical Therapy
Physical education and physical therapy provide a collaborative model for improved participation for all students during physical education classes. The physical education curriculum is adapted to include all students at all skill levels. The teacher establishes activities based on this curriculum. The activities are adapted by a physical therapist for each class so that all students are able to participate.
Adaptations include utilization of specialized equipment and modification of rules and expectations for a game. Students are provided with opportunities to move in developmentally appropriate ways. Goals and a rationale for adaptations are generated by the collaborative effort of the physical education teacher and physical therapists. This model has been broadened to include instruction for classroom and personal paraprofessionals allowing them to better support their students as they continue to develop gross motor skills. Physical therapists participate during physical education classes for younger students and are available for consultation for older students.