Physically Impaired Children Activities

• Help your child see past his disability to what he CAN do! Yuji Kotani/Photodisc/Getty Images

  Physically disabled children have less motivation to join in active play and physical activity, but they still need to be active in order to have the best health and well-being. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that moderate physical activity "can help people with chronic, disabling conditions improve their stamina and muscle strength." Consider several activities to engage your child in rewarding physical activities.

Modified Sports

• Playing sports that normal children play can make a physically impaired child more confident, learn cooperation, feel independent and give them a sense of well being. Basketball can be played in wheelchairs by modifying the dribbling rules. Tennis can also be played in wheelchairs by allowing the ball to bounce twice instead of once before hitting it. Play volleyball by moving the net to a low level and have each player sit on the floor. Games can be altered for visually impaired children by using a ball with a bell inside and arming the goal with a beeping or buzzing sound.

Toys, Books and Puzzles

• Even the most disabled children have fun blowing bubbles or splashing in water. Use sensory toys with textures to stimulate feeling in extremities. Read books, including ones about other children with disabilities that your child can relate to. Purchase toys with flashing lights, sounds and bright colors for children who can't see well. Children who are able could squirt people with water guns or "paint" using a bucket of water and a paintbrush. Help your child build something out of plastic building blocks or help them put together a puzzle. Let your child paint using a paintbrush or their fingers. Allowing them to create something will give them a sense of accomplishment.

Local Programs

• Learn about programs in your area that cater to handicapped individuals. Many city, state and national associations provide programs for sports, camps and other activities. You may also be able to purchase games and equipment that will help your child play, such as footballs and basketballs, specialized chess and checker sets, dominoes, and other popular games.