APE

APE is a physical education class that has been modified appropriately for students with disabilities. It helps develop a child’s motor skills, flexibility, balance, endurance, strength and confidence.

The benefits of APE for students with disabilities include:
- Increased independence

-  Participation in age appropriate activities

- Strengthening of the core

- Development of listening skills and teamwork

- Learning strategic planning and implementation

- Improved health from physical activity

- Increased coordination and cognitive functioning

We spoke with Mr. Donald C., an APE teacher
, who explained the importance and benefits of APE for special needs students.

Enabling Devices: Why is APE important for students with disabilities?

Donald C: APE is important for students with disabilities because it gives the students an opportunity to work on their motor skills in a small setting. The teacher can work on their individual needs rather than the needs of a larger group as a whole. In an intimate setting, it is easier for improvement and monitoring of the specific goals and objectives for the student at their own pace.

ED: Why is it important for students to participate in an APE program in school?

DC : An APE program teaches students that they are not different but may need a different teaching process. We teach students how to possibly use modified equipment that may help them perform a skill they wouldn't be able to without the equipment. Rather than playing games or sports, these students will work on the sport specific skills needed so that one day they will be able to play the actual sport. Also, it helps teach the students how to focus on their strengths and what they can do, rather than what they can’t do.  

ED: Do you have any specific examples of modified equipment that is beneficial for students in your program?

DC: One piece of equipment that I use for students who may have a visual impairment is a ball with bells or a beeper inside of it. This ball helps the students track the ball with their other senses when their vision is lacking. Another piece of equipment that I have used is a ramp for bowling activities, for students who cannot roll a ball on their own. They can place the ball on the ramp and push the ball towards the pins rather than rolling the ball.

We want to thank Donald for further explaining APE and how physical education can be made accessible to all children.