Participation in Extracurricular Activities: A Boon for Children with Special Needs

Anuradha Sekhri*
*Institute for Development and Communication, Research Centre of Panjab University, Chandigarh, India.
Periodicity:February - April'2019
DOI : https://doi.org/10.26634/jpsy.12.4.15489

Abstract

Participation of children with disabilities in sports and cultural activities, programs, promotes physical, emotional, and social wellbeing. Co-curricular activities can make a huge difference in a life of children with special needs (CWSN). These activities can enhance learning, while offering ways for students to express themselves and explore their strengths. Out of home, to the Resource Room, (irrespective of their disability), to the playground, on the stage, facing the teachers, peers and at times general public also showing their talents, academic, and sporting prowess speaks volumes of the overall development of CWSN. Participation in cultural programmes and curricular activities is a source of inspiration and development of self-confidence. Behaviour which cannot be inculcated through academic activities can be developed through co-curricular activities and other recreational programs. Descriptive exploratory survey design was employed in the present study to answer the research questions. The findings of the present study revealed that children with special needs voluntarily participates in sports and cultural activities and CWSN are competent of performing with regular students in sports and recreational activities in areas such as Drawing, Music, Dance, and Sports, in preparation of illustrative aids as well. The impact of participation of CWSN in these activities on their development was reflected in; confidence in self leading to the development of self concept. The field observations and data revealed that, all the CWSN take part in sports and sports competitions and like to play indoor and outdoor games. It was recommended that Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA) should divert some funds for preparing the playgrounds where CWSN can pursue their interest in sports like football, basket-ball, athletics, etc. and prepare for State and National level competitions. The impact of participation in sports, cultural, and co-curricular activities is evident in all-round development of the CWSN.

Keywords

Participation in Extracurricular Activities, Sports Activities, Cultural Programmes, Development of Children with Special Needs (CWSN), Benefits.

How to Cite this Article?

Sekhri, A. (2019). Participation in Extracurricular Activities: A Boon for Children with Special Needs. i-manager’s Journal on Educational Psychology, 12(4), 42-53. https://doi.org/10.26634/jpsy.12.4.15489

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