Abstract:

Objective To construct a support system that facilitates the participation of children with special needs (CSN) in physical activity within the context of inclusive education.

Methods Based on World Health Organization (WHO) health promoting school (HPS) framework, and integrating WHO International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) as well as the WHO guidelines on physical activity, a systematic and multidimensional support framework was developed.

Results In the context of inclusive education, the primary forms of physical activity for CSN included physical education classes and extracurricular sports activities. A comprehensive support system was developed at macro-, meso- and micro-levels. At the macro-level, the framework called for the establishment of inclusive physical education and activity-related policies, accessible and universally designed physical environments, inclusive activity climates, and integrated community resources. At the meso-level, it emphasized creating a supportive professional development environment for inclusive physical education teachers, equipping them with skills in inclusive pedagogy, classroom management and extracurricular activity planning. At the micro-level, it focused on the design of physical education curricula tailored to the physical activity and motor development needs of CSN, the establishment of individualized learning support mechanisms, and encouraging active participation in physical education and physical activities.

Conclusion To address the physical activity and educational needs of CSN in inclusive education settings, a three-tiered support system has been constructed. The macro-level involves policy, environment and community; the meso-level focuses on teachers and instructional practices; and the micro-level targets students' learning, motor development and health.

Key words: children with special needs, inclusive physical education, physical activity, support system, International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health, health-promoting school