Activities for Disabled Children

Karate

• Karate is one of the oldest martial arts in practice. It gives students a sense of self-power, strength, flexibility and agility. Karate can be taught to children of all sizes and ages. Children with disabilities can practice modified karate depending on their disability. Karate can be learned without the use of limbs and even from a seated position on the floor. The only necessary requirements are the ability to move and the commitment and desire to learn.

Creative Movement

• Creative movement is another name for free interpretive dance. Creative movement allows disabled children to express themselves through their bodies. If disabled children can move and can hear they can participate in creative movement activities to music. Play songs and encourage children to move their bodies and limbs however they feel inspired to do so. Creative movement improves circulation, raises heart rate and releases endorphins. It is especially beneficial for children who are sedentary most of the day.

Spending Time in Nature

• Nature is calming and healing. Spend time taking walks, rides, jogs or just sitting in the natural environment. Civilization can be monotonous and cold to disabled children who are not free to run and play outside. Time in forests, on beaches, lakes and mountains give children a fresh perspective. The vibrant colors, smells and fresh air of the natural world are invigorating and inspiring. Animals and insects help children gain a deeper appreciation for other life forms and inspire curiosity and wonder.

Yoga

• The practice of yoga includes total body, mind and spiritual benefits. Disabled children of all ages can practice and benefit from yoga. It can even be modified for children with limited movement capabilities. Yoga means "union" and refers to the union of the body and the mind. The practice of yoga blends physical postures with meditation through breath. Yogic benefits include digestive, lymphatic, cardiovascular, skeletal and muscular strength enhancements. Coinciding the breath with the movement calms the practitioner's mind by syncing her inner life with her outer form. Yoga helps disabled children to come to love and accept their bodies while strengthening their muscles and challenging their mental limitations.

Writing Poems

• Encourage disabled children to create their own poems. Give them topics about what to write such as colors, objects, feelings, events or wishes they may have. Play instrumental music in the background. Ask children to close their eyes and listen to the music. Tell them to visualize as they hear the music. When they open their eyes, ask them to write down images they saw in their mind. Encourage them to describe their thoughts and feelings about the music and to share any objects or scenes they experienced. Poem writing encourages free association and train of thought writing. It inspires children to express themselves freely through verbal communication.