disability
noun (pl. disabilities)
TM
A physical or mental condition that limits a person’s movements, senses or activities. • a disadvantage or handicap, esp. one imposed or recognized by the law: he had to quit his job and go on disability.
Should you teach adaptive? DISABILITIES AND MARTIAL ARTS
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Teaching someone with a disability that limits their Chances are good that you area already teaching movements, senses or activities takes a bit more one on students with disabilities. Granted, they may be minor one or private instruction in order to comprehend the disabilities such as vision impairment (glasses/contacts), abilities, needs and intentions of your disabled student. hearing impairment (wears hearing aid, ADHD, Epilepsy, Often adaptive students can be mixed right into the Diabetes, IBS, Asthma, etc. These disabilities can range traditional class structure, while some will prefer to set from minor to severe impairment. Many people with up smaller classes specifically to address the needs of the these types of disabilities are able to compensate for any disabled class. deficiency and pretty much hide their “differences”. A class with students with ADHD or on the Autism Spectrum benefit from having the mirrors covered. Putting Often we have a student come into the dojo injured in some way; sprains, tendonitis, splinted fractures, bandaged this group together, will make it easier to create the most injuries. And after quick review of what they perceive their suitable environment. Remember! All disabilities are not the same! Some will limitations to be, we weave them into the class structure, be easier to train than others. You don’t have to master often giving them alternative techniques to practice. them all! It’s pretty safe to say that most martial arts instructors The Adaptive Martial Arts Association is ready to have taught an adapted form of their martial arts style answer your questions, assist in finding modalities to with giving it much thought. help you teach and provide resources for your adaptive program.
Q&A IF I OPEN THE DOOR TO ACCEPTING STUDENT WITH DISABILITIES, AM I OBLIGATED TO TAKE ALL TYPES OF DISABILITIES? Just as you interview and choose students that will benefit your style of martial arts, you are in no way obligated to accept every disabled student that walks through your door. HOW CAN I MARKET MY ADAPTIVE PROGRAM? AMAA is dedicated to helping you be successful in promoting your adaptive program. By joining, we will assist you in promoting your programs and offer tips and ideas on what you can do on a local level. IS IT WORTH THE EFFORT? Ask anyone who is currently teaching an adaptive form of their style and they will say YES! Depending on which type of disabilites your students have, will depend on how much you need to adapt your class and style. The effort is appreciated when you see the difference you make.
Adaptive Martial Arts Association
www.adaptivemartialarts.org
Corporate Sponsor