A Pilot Acceptability Study of an ‘AllPlay Pre-Learn’ Day Program to Facilitate Participation in Organised Physical Activity for Children with Disabilities

Katherine Howells, Carmel Sivaratnam, Tamara May, Ebony Lindor and Nicole Rinehart
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Katherine Howells: School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, Deakin Child Study Centre, Deakin University, Geelong 3220, Australia
Carmel Sivaratnam: School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, Deakin Child Study Centre, Deakin University, Geelong 3220, Australia
Tamara May: School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, Deakin Child Study Centre, Deakin University, Geelong 3220, Australia
Ebony Lindor: School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, Deakin Child Study Centre, Deakin University, Geelong 3220, Australia
Nicole Rinehart: School of Psychology, Faculty of Health, Deakin Child Study Centre, Deakin University, Geelong 3220, Australia

IJERPH, 2019, vol. 16, issue 24, 1-20

Abstract: In a mixed-methods design, the current study aimed to evaluate the acceptability of a junior Australian rules football program across two ‘AllPlay Pre-Learn’ days for children aged 5–11 years with disabilities, based on parent and child responses. Three online surveys were created by health professionals based on existing participation models. Surveys were completed by parents immediately before ( n = 23), after the ‘Pre-Learn’ days ( n = 15) and following the conclusion of the community version of the program ( n = 13). Quantitative findings indicated significant improvements in child ratings around enjoyment of the sport. Qualitative analyses generated three themes around enjoyment in a low-stress environment; the education provided around the sport for parents/children; and, contemplation about playing the football program within their community. Four families (22% of the original attendees) went on to play the sport within a community setting. Despite acknowledged limitations, this study demonstrates preliminary evidence in support of an ‘AllPlay Pre-Learn’ day as a stepping stone to facilitate later participation in a football program within a child’s community. Increased participation would allow children to experience the benefits associated with sport participation, such as motor and social skill development.

Keywords: disability; organised physical activity; sports participation; football (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2019
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