VIDBE-Q 2026 Volume 71 Issue 3
Adapted Equipment and Modifications
The majority of interventions and modifications for students with
deafblindness are focused on social interaction, communication, motivation, and
participation (Sundqvist et al., 2023). Adapted and general physical educators need
to collaborate with members of the IEP team to learn strategies to address these
areas.
Successful movement programming requires thoughtful adaptation of
equipment and environment to maximize accessibility and safety, while also
maintaining a structured schedule and routine to increase predictability. It is also
beneficial to start with familiar movements before progressing to unfamiliar
movements to increase confidence and participation. Pulling from previous
knowledge can add in concept development of similarities and differences
related to movements.
Student input should be actively sought regarding modifications based on
their level of vision and hearing and preferences. When it comes to various
equipment students may prefer specific colors or have textures they prefer.
Discovering and implementing students' preferences during movement
activities can increase their level of motivation and participation. High contrast
between objects and backgrounds improves visual access for students with
residual vision. Reducing clutter and excessive noise minimizes distractions
and enhances focus and attention. Audible balls and targets utilize natural
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