It can:
- be mild or severe
- affect a child or young person's development
- be hidden.
Every child or young person with a physical disability is unique. Physical disabilities can range from:
- degenerative conditions
- trauma (physical and birth)
- chromosome disorders
- musculoskeletal conditions
- limb differences
- complex medical needs.
Common types of physical disabilities
The following are the most common types of physical disabilities for children in with an education, health and care (EHC) plan.
- Asthma
- Cerebral Palsy
- Fibromyalgia
- Hypermobility
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Spina Bifida
- Tourette’s Syndrome
Some of the strategies our tutors may use when working with and supporting a child with physical disabilities:
- Find out what the child's strengths are and capitalise on them.
- Plan ahead. Consider preparing equipment or adjustments that encourage full participation of the child before beginning an activity.
- Keep your expectations of the physically disabled child high.
- By the same token, ask the child what limits and boundaries they have regarding their disability.
- Making adjustments to teaching styles
- Adapted materials may be needed so that a student can fully participate. For example, thicker pencils and paintbrushes might help with grip, paper can be taped down and placed on slanted surfaces, and scarves, balls and other materials may better engage students with physical disabilities in dance.
