VIDBE-Q 2026 Volume 71 Issue 3
Elizabeth
A. Foster, Department of Secondary Education and K12
Health & Physical Education, West Chester University, PA,
efoster@wcupa.edu
Abstract
Physical education is a federally mandated service under the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA, 2004) for all students with
disabilities, including those with deafblindness. Students with blindness, visual
impairments, or deafblindness often experience delays in motor development,
reduced fitness levels, and limited opportunities for physical activity
participation. This paper examines evidence-based practices for providing
quality physical education and sport opportunities for students with
deafblindness, emphasizing the importance of communication and presuming
competence, while utilizing best practices in instruction, and implementing
appropriate adaptations for educators and service providers. Key strategies
include pre-teaching, environmental orientation, physical guidance,
Physical Activities and Sport for Students with
Deafblindness
43
