Movement behaviours and health of children and youth with disabilities: Impact of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic

Objectives This study examined the acute and longer-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the movement behaviours and health of children and youth with disabilities (CYD) in Canada. Methods Eighty-six parents of CYD completed an online survey twice (May 2020 and November 2020). Interviews were completed with seven families in March 2021. Results At both time points, <20% of CYD met the physical activity and sedentary behaviour guidelines, and >50% of CYD met the sleep guideline. No CYD met all three movement guidelines. Nearly one-quarter of CYD reported declines in health from pre-pandemic levels. Interview themes revealed that shifting of routines, unoccupied time, reduced physiotherapy opportunities, parental capacity, and the social and built environment all impacted the movement behaviours of CYD. Conclusions Movement behaviours and health of CYD must be prioritized in COVID-19 recovery efforts through quality programming, highly trained instructors, accessible and inclusive infrastructure, and family-centred health.