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Adapted Physical EducationAdapted Physical Education (APE) is a program that provides physical education opportunities for individuals with exceptional needs who require developmental or corrective instruction and who cannot safely or successfully participate in the general PE program. The APE teacher is a direct service provider. It is GOOD teaching which differentiates the curriculum, task, equipment, and/or environment as appropriate for each child, so ALL students can successfully learn and participate in physical education. Our Adapted P.E. program offers classes that utilize games, sports, and activities similar to those found in regular P.E. classes. Activities are adapted in order to focus on fine and gross motor skills and to accommodate the functional level of students and their abilities. P.E. equipment is modified to meet these needs and to maximize participation in the physical education program. Specific activities are planned around achieving the student’s individual IEP goals. In addition to sports and games, students are given the opportunity to work on improving their fitness. Children with physical disabilities are at higher risk for becoming obese. They may have difficulty moving so they do not have the same opportunities as other young people to participate in sports-related activities or to even go out to play at a neighborhood playground. Research has shown that children who are overweight or obese are at risk for developing lifelong health problems, such as diabetes, high blood pressure and cardiac disease. This is one reason why we are determined to provide our students with opportunities in the physical education program to work on cardiovascular activities, strengthening and flexibility exercises. Our students really enjoy exercising under the supervision of adapted physical education teachers. These workouts provide the opportunity for students to engage in physical fitness exercises that accommodate their special needs while preparing them for community based activities that may lead to lifetime fitness. Monthly Units September Wellness / Nutrition
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