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Leisure and Sports
All children deserve the chance to play, move, and explore the world around them, regardless of ability. For children with additional needs, access to leisure and sport is not only possible, but incredibly beneficial.
Back to the Parent HubAll children deserve the chance to play, move, and explore the world around them, regardless of ability. For children with additional needs, access to leisure and sport is not only possible, but incredibly beneficial. Thanks to inclusive attitudes and innovative adaptive equipment, more and more families are discovering how accessible and empowering physical activity can be.
As a parent, you might wonder how your child can participate if they have limited mobility, use a wheelchair, or need postural support. The answer lies in creativity, patience, and the incredible tools now available to help your child join in at their own pace.
What are the Benefits to Leisure and Sports?
Engaging in leisure and sports activities, especially with the help of tailored support and equipment, offers far-reaching benefits for children with additional needs:
Physical Health
- Encourages movement, even for children with limited mobility
- Supports development of core strength, coordination and range of motion
- Aids posture, balance and planning of movement which is great for cognition
Social Inclusion
- Gives children a way to play with peers, siblings, and families
- Boosts communication skills and teamwork [1]
- Promotes a sense of equality and belonging
Confidence and Independence
- Children can experience achievements on their own terms
- Using mobility aids and adaptive tools empowers them to lead and explore
- Builds resilience and pride through participation [2]
Mental and Emotional Well-being
- Physical activity releases endorphins and reduces anxiety
- Recreation provides an outlet for self-expression and joy
- Reduces feelings of isolation by encouraging interaction [3]
Did you know?
The UK Chief Medical Officer recommend that disabled children and young people aim to be physically active for at least 120 to 180 minutes per week. The aim should be for a variety of activities that build strength, improve balance, and reduce sedentary behaviour. The focus is on activities that are enjoyable, inclusive, and tailored to each child’s abilities. You can read the full guidance and view the associated poster here: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/physical-activity-guidelines-for-disabled-children-and-disabled-young-people-methodology/uk-chief-medical-officers-physical-activity-guidelines-for-disabled-children-and-disabled-young-people-methodology
What Activities and Sports Are Available?
With the support of adaptive equipment, many traditional activities can be made accessible and meaningful for children with a range of physical or developmental needs.
Mobility-Enhanced Play
- Pedal-based movement aids allow children with limited mobility to enjoy cycling experiences, either independently or with assistance.
- Walking frames let children take part in group games, obstacle courses, and free play with improved stability and posture.
- Seated mobility devices can help children explore their surroundings indoors and outdoors safely.
Inclusive Sports
- Adapted versions of football, basketball, or cycling allow children to take part at their own level.
- Target games (like bowling or bean bag toss) can be played from a supported seated or standing position.
- Swimming with floatation and positioning aids enables freedom of movement in water.
Creative and Sensory Play
- Adaptive seating supports participation in music, dance, and movement classes.
- Role-play and imaginative games become possible when a child can move, explore, or sit comfortably with proper support.
- Tactile and sensory activities can be integrated into movement routines using accessible equipment.
Did you know?
There are many organisations worldwide offering inclusive activities, clubs, and competitions.
In the UK, the Activity Alliance works with seven National Disability Sports Organisations (NDSOs), such as WheelPower for wheelchair users, CP Sport for children and young people with Cerebral Palsy, and Special Olympics GB for individuals with learning disabilities. For local opportunities, Every Body Moves lets you search by postcode.
In the US, Move United connects families to adaptive sports nationwide, while Special Olympics USA offers training and competitions for athletes with intellectual disabilities.
In Australia, Disability Sports Australia supports inclusive sport pathways, with Special Olympics Australia providing year-round activities.
Across the EU, European Paralympic Committee promotes and coordinates para sport development, and Special Olympics Europe/Eurasia offers local programs in over 50 countries. These links offer a great starting point to find a sport that suits your child’s needs and interests, wherever you are in the world.
The key is adapting the activity to your child, rather than the other way around.
Barriers - And how to overcome them
We know there are real challenges when it comes to accessing sport and leisure for children with additional needs. Here are some common barriers, and how to navigate them:
“My child can’t move independently.”
With the right mobility aids (like assisted walking frames, pedal supports floor mobility devices or sports wheelchairs) movement becomes possible. Many activities can be adapted to your child's current level of mobility such as wheelchair football..
“A lot of activities aren’t designed for children with complex needs.”
Seek out inclusive providers or disability-specific groups that understand adaptive play. Many programs now welcome children with varied physical and sensory needs and provide equipment or allow you to bring your own.
“My child gets overwhelmed easily.”
Start with low-stimulation environments or short sessions. Using familiar equipment from home (like a supportive seat or mobility aid) can help your child feel safe and confident.
“Sports equipment is expensive or unavailable.”
Some charities, grant programs, and local services provide funding or equipment loans. Additionally, some leisure centres and schools offer access to adaptive gear during sessions.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I find activities that welcome children with additional needs?
Local councils, disability sports charities, and parent networks often maintain lists of inclusive clubs and sessions. Therapists and teachers in your school will often know of inclusive clubs. Don’t hesitate to contact providers directly and ask if they accommodate adaptive equipment.
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What if my child has very limited mobility or needs full support?
There are still many options, including assisted swimming, sensory dance, wheelchair-accessible games, and seated floor play. With supportive positioning, even passive movement can be enjoyable and beneficial.
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Can I bring our own equipment to an activity?
In most cases, yes. It’s best to call ahead and explain what your child uses. Many providers are happy to accommodate personal equipment that helps your child participate safely.
What's Next?
Follow the PAM Wheel - A practical, visual, and easy-to-use tool to help families and therapy teams manage a child’s postural and activity equipment throughout the day.
Useful Downloads
Available in 20+ countries
We work closely with over 20+ global partners who distribute the Leckey family of products throughout the world.
To get in touch or to become a Leckey distributor, please email hello@leckey.com or call us on (+44) 28 9260 0750.
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Our Extended Family
Firefly
The Firefly range of portable products are all about participation. These posturally supportive products are clinically sound, practical and fun, ensuring children with additional needs can take part in everyday life. As well as products, Firefly facilitates an online community where advice and experiences are shared between parents, therapists and charities.
