KIT Provides Tips to Include Athletes with Disabilities

San Diego, CA, February 02, 2013 --(PR.com)-- In response to a Department of Education mandate, Kids Included Together has created a list of 5 tips to help K12 athletic directors include youth with disabilities in sports programs:

1. Modify uniforms and equipment (for instance, a child/youth with sensory differences may need to wear a rash guard for competitive swimming, which may require an exception according to swim regulations)
2. Allow athletes to have a personal aide and/or use assistive devices
3. Understand that modeling and repetition may be necessary for athlete to participate successfully
4. Allow frequent breaks for reasons that may include: medication management, restroom use, hydration and nutrition and fatigue
5. Provide ongoing staff training on how to include athletes and interested athletes with disabilities

The United States Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that students with disabilities are not being afforded an equal opportunity to participate in extracurricular athletics in public elementary and secondary schools. The GAO recommends the Department of Education remind schools of their responsibilities under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 which protects the rights of individuals with disabilities in school programs and activities.