What you need to know
Physical Education
- Many children with CHDs can fully participate in most physical and extra curricular activities.
- It is important for individuals with CHDs to have an opportunity for physical activity to optimize physical and mental health.
- Certain CHDs and syndromes will have very specific recommendations regarding physical exercise and restrictions. (i.e. Marfan syndrome)
- Exercise is important and should be encouraged, especially those exercises that build muscle mass and motor skills.
- May be able to exercise but not participate in contact sports
- If you live in New England (USA) and qualify, Northeast Passage offers Therapeutic Recreation and Adaptive Sports programming.
Field Trips
- Individuals with CHD do not typically have difficulties on field trips.
- Exceptions may be in field trips that have a lot of physical activity and the child has restrictions.
What you can do
- Encourage academic and artistic activities if physical activities are more restricted
- Allow child to help with coaching or team management if there are restrictions
- Consider 504 for physical activity modifications if appropriate
- Instruct in self-monitoring technique.
- Provide opportunities for practice of self-monitoring
- Instruct in relaxation techniques, safety, and breathing
- Some individuals may need additional time to get to class
- Limit extra movement between classes if necessary
- Make sure the child has extra water
- Make sure an automated external defibrillator (AED) is available if the condition warrants one