Evaluation of an adaptive ice skating programme for children with disabilities.
OBJECTIVE
To describe an adaptive ice skating programme designed by paediatric therapists.


METHODS
Twenty-two children, ages 5-12 years, with developmental disabilities participated in this once per week skating programme lasting 6 weeks. Ice skating instructors led the group lessons, while university student coaches provided individualized assistance to the children. The programme was evaluated using a summative evaluation design. Outcomes included participant attendance, incidence of injuries, skating skills and parent and student coach survey data.


RESULTS
On average, participants attended 83% of the sessions and one minor injury was reported. Participants' parents were very satisfied with the programme and reported improvements in their child's skating skills, leg strength, endurance, balance, self-esteem/confidence and ability to participate in a group. Student coaches also reported high levels of satisfaction with this programme and reported similar improvements in the children they coached.


CONCLUSIONS
The programme appeared promising, but may require minor modifications.
Franciscan Hospital for Children, Research Center, Brighton, MA 02135, USA. mfragala@fhfc.org
Maria A
MA
Fragala-Pinkham
Helene M
HM
Dumas
Megan
M
Boyce
Christine Y
CY
Peters
Stephen M
SM
Haley
D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003153:Community Health Services; D019988:Children with Disabilities; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010865:Pilot Projects; D010988:Play and Playthings; D015397:Program Evaluation; D011482:Protective Devices; D012649:Self Concept; D012861:Skating; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires