The meaning of adapted ice-skating for children and youths with disabilities

PurposeChildren and youths with disabilities have low levels of physical activity and limited opportunities to participate in physical activity. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences and meaning of an adapted ice-skating approach with access to a tailored harness system as a physical activity for children and youths with disabilities in Sweden.Materials and methodsSemi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 guardians, 5 ice-skating trainers and 15 ice-skating children and youths with disabilities. The interviews were supplemented with participant observations of 23 children and youths with disabilities while ice-skating.ResultsFour categories emerged: "To grow as a person," "To arouse zest for life," "To train for life" and "To become part of society." Ice-skating was found to be a source of joy of movement, zest for life and longing, enabling children and youths with disabilities to explore and develop their abilities, social interactions, confidence, identity, and independence in a safe and joy-bringing context.ConclusionThe study highlights social and existential dimensions of an adapted ice-skating approach with access to a harness system tailored for children and youths with disabilities, that enables them to be included in ice-skating, regardless of disabilities, creating increased opportunities for physical activity and movement. Adapted ice-skating, with access to ice-skating trainers, adapted facilities, and assistive devices, such as tailored harness systems, can create opportunities for children and youths with disabilities to increase their level of physical activity.Participation in adapted ice-skating seems to affect both physical, psychological, social, and existential dimensions for children and youths with disabilities, thus impacting their whole life.The knowledge contribution of this study can be a basis for investments in adapted and harness-supported ice-skating activities, which can improve the health and well-being of children and youths with disabilities.