Supporting Students with Chronic Illnesses during Physical Education and Sport

Chronic illnesses are conditions that last one year or more and require ongoing medical attention, limit activities of daily living, or both (Raghupathi & Raghupathi, 2018). Over 40% of school -aged children have at least one chronic health condition (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2021). Children with chronic illnesses may need accommodations to their learning environment and can be protected by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Some of the most common chronic illnesses impacting students include respiratory disorders, bleeding disorders, sickle cell anemia, and diabetes. The purpose of this article is to discuss common chronic health conditions and how physical educators and coaches can provide an environment in which children with chronic illnesses are safe and successful while participating in physical activity.