Children with Disabilities

People First, Disability Second

A core value of Aussie Rules Schools is that every child has the right to be involved in sport, especially a fun sport like Australian football. Including children with disabilities is not hard, it just requires enthusiasm and understanding.

Aussie Rules UK ensures all of its Coordinators and Development Officers receive professional training to work with children with disabilities. Emphasis is given to the following when conducting coaching clinics:

• Encourage the carer/parent to be involved and assist in activities and be responsible for the needs of the child.
• Every child is unique, people with disabilities are no different, all have the same needs and require the same opportunities as everyone else.
• Work with what the child CAN do and, if unsure, ask them or their parent/carer.
• Youngsters with disability must be seen as a person first – the similarities to peers should be noted, not the differences.
• Simple adaptations or modifications of activities will allow greater participation by all.
• Wherever possible have the child participating in all aspects of the day’s activities.
• Check the needs and abilities of the child.
• Provide activities where children can succeed and develop self-esteem.

ALL children are encouraged to participate in all activities.