Developing disability inclusive coaching principles within community recreational sport programming for children

Background

Positive sport experiences for children are essential to establish long-term sport engagement. Coaches play a key role in fostering quality sport experiences for all children. For children with disabilities, caregivers are often closely involved in their sport participation, particularly when additional support is needed, and their perspectives can offer valuable insight into sport program experiences. The purpose of this study was to understand the role coaches have in optimizing the participation experiences of children in recreation-level sport programs. Specifically, this study aimed to explore children’s, caregivers', and coaches' perceptions of the coaching role in recreational sport programs that involve children with and without disabilities.

Methods

Individual interviews were conducted with 14 children (seven with disabilities), 15 caregivers, and 12 recreational sport coaches. Interview transcripts were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis.

Results

Four themes were generated during the analysis: (a) creating avenues for connection (two subthemes), (b) an environment focused on child empowerment (two subthemes), (c) autonomy-supportive coaching practices (three subthemes), and (d) flexibility and adapting the program to suit everyone (two subthemes). A family-centered coaching approach that prioritizes developing rapport with caregivers to enhance the child’s participation needs is key, especially in sport settings that include children with diverse abilities.

Conclusions

Coaches should employ autonomy-supportive coaching, supporting child connections without forcing them, and provide each child with opportunities for challenge and success. Doing so can help to foster quality participation experiences for children during this formative time to contribute to lasting sport involvement.