In a movement activity using a parachute, a child with cerebral palsy has difficulty lifting; what is the best modification?

In a movement activity using a parachute, a child with cerebral palsy has difficulty lifting; what is the best modification?

• A. Positioning the child between classmates so she can hold on while they control the up-and-down motion
• B. Removing the child from the activity
• C. Replacing the parachute with a small ball
• D. Letting the child stand at the side and watch

Answer: (A)

When support in a group movement activity is needed, the goal is to keep the child engaged and participating while making the task doable. For a parachute game, lifting can be demanding, especially if there’s a motor coordination challenge. Placing the child between classmates so she can hold on while they control the up-and-down motion provides the right balance of participation and assistance. She stays actively involved, experiences the rhythm and timing of the group, and receives stabilizing support from peers, which can help with arm control and endurance without taking away the collaborative nature of the activity. It also fosters social interaction and a sense of belonging, which are important in early childhood settings. Choosing to remove her from the activity or stand by watching isolates her from the group and misses chances to practice motor skills in a meaningful context. Replacing the parachute with a small ball changes the activity’s goals and doesn’t specifically address the lifting challenge.

When support in a group movement activity is needed, the goal is to keep the child engaged and participating while making the task doable. For a parachute game, lifting can be demanding, especially if there’s a motor coordination challenge. Placing the child between classmates so she can hold on while they control the up-and-down motion provides the right balance of participation and assistance. She stays actively involved, experiences the rhythm and timing of the group, and receives stabilizing support from peers, which can help with arm control and endurance without taking away the collaborative nature of the activity. It also fosters social interaction and a sense of belonging, which are important in early childhood settings.

Choosing to remove her from the activity or stand by watching isolates her from the group and misses chances to practice motor skills in a meaningful context. Replacing the parachute with a small ball changes the activity’s goals and doesn’t specifically address the lifting challenge.