Journal Article

Physical Activity Experiences of Families of Children With Visual Impairments

Columna, Luis, Norris, Michael L

2016

Overview

Physical activity provides multiple benefits to children with visual impairments and their families. Research exploring physical activity opportunities for children with visual impairments and their families is limited (Columna et al., 2013). The investigation of the types of physical activities in which families of children with visual impairments participate provides valuable information that may allow for the creation of programs that meet the needs of this population. Therefore, the purpose of the current study was to explore the nature of physical activity among families of children with visual impairments. This study aimed to answer the following research questions: What are the physical activity experiences of families of children with visual impairments? What are the mechanisms necessary for families of children with visual impairments to participate in physical activity? A descriptive qualitative research design was used for the study. Data were collected in 2 ways: personal data sheets with demographic information and semistructured interviews. Convenience sampling was used to identify possible participants for the study (Creswell, 2003). Participants were parents of children with visual impairments (N ¼ 10) who took part in one-on-one semistructured phone interviews. Two themes emerged from the data analysis: (a) \"We want to... yet are not sure how,\" and (b) \"I don't want to push too far.\" Results revealed that parents valued physical activity but had to modify their personal desires for PA and sought what was in the best interest and well-being of their children. Parents lacked the skills to teach and advocate for their children regarding physical activity. They voiced the need for a support system that would allow them to be more physically active. There is a need to provide training for these families regarding physical activity as well as a need to educate physical activity/education professionals and community partners with regard to physical activity and physical education needs of children with visual impairments. Collaborating with parents of children with visual impairments in these areas will increase the opportunities for these parents and children to participate in physical activity more frequently.

• Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd
• Subject: Childhood Needs / Data Analysis / Families & family life / Family (Sociological Unit) / Owner operator / Parents / Parents & parenting / Physical Activity Level / Physical Education / Qualitative research / Research Design / Semi Structured Interviews / Visual Impairments