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Children and youth diagnosed with developmental disabilities (DD) are at a higher risk for mental health concerns (e.g., anxiety) and physical health issues (e.g., obesity) when compared to their typically developing counterparts. An intervention that may be able to mitigate and even prevent these issues is physical activity (PA); however, despite evidence indicating that PA can reduce mental and physical health concerns, and improve confidence, social skills and motor skills, children and youth with DD are less active than their typically-abled counterparts and do not meet the PA guidelines. Movin' and Groovin' (M&G) is one example of an affordable program for young people with DD and their siblings. This article describes M&G as one example of how a community program fosters an accepting learning environment for all participants, including specific instruction techniques and activities for educators and coaches.

Physical activity (PA) has shown promise in addressing social, behavioural, and motor concerns in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). In this paper, the experience of a seven-year-old girl ('Sophie') with ASD and other psychological disorders was examined as she participated in a 10-week PA program. Her motor and social skills were evaluated before and after the program via the Movement Assessment Battery for Children and the Social Responsiveness Scale. PA and social interactions were analyzed based on video recordings, interviews, and focus groups. Sophie demonstrated some improvements in her motor and social skills after the PA program, in addition to gaining PA and social interactions. Sophie also gained self-confidence as she was supported by the instructor and volunteer, and acceptance as she was included in an environment with other children of varying ages and abilities. Sophie's progress exemplifies the far-reaching effects of PA when offered in an accepting environment with adequate support. Keywords: Physical activity, autism spectrum disorder, mixed methods, motor, social, Introduction Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) affects approximately one in 66 Canadians (Public Health Agency of Canada, 2018) and is characterized by repetitive and restrictive behaviours and interests, as well as [...]

Cri du Chat Syndrome (CdCS) is a genetic disorder resulting in physical, social, and cognitive impairments. Practicing fundamental movement skills (FMS) provides a developmental foundation that has been proven to positively impact overall development in the lives of individuals with disabilities. However, CdCS has yet to be investigated within this context. This case-study of an individual with CdCS investigated FMS and social behaviours during an adapted physical activity (APA) program. Findings demonstrated social and task behaviours that influenced Megan's progression through the APA program. As well, revealed incongruencies between standard FMS developmental levels and individuals with CdCS. These findings have limited generalizability but should be considered for future physical activity program structure and instruction. Keywords: Cri du Chat Syndrome, fundamental motor skills, disabilities, adapted physical activity, Introduction In 1963, a rare genetic disorder was identified and termed Cri du Chat Syndrome (CdCS; Pituch et al., 2010), based on the 'distinctive cat-like sound of the children's cry' [...]