Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 19, 2026

09:18
Measurements of Motor Function and Other Clinical Outcome Parameters in Ambulant Children with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy
Published on: January 12, 2019
10.4K
Physical Activity Among Young Children With Disabilities: A Systematic Review
Leah G Taylor1, Leigh M Vanderloo2,3, Julia Yates1
1Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Western Ontario, London, ON,Canada.
Adapted Physical Activity Quarterly : APAQ
|June 30, 2023
Summary
Physical activity (PA) is crucial for young children
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Health
- Developmental Science
- Disability Studies
Background:
- Early years physical activity (PA) is vital for child development and health.
- Limited understanding exists regarding PA levels in young children with disabilities.
Approach:
- Systematic review of empirical quantitative studies on PA in children aged 0-5.99 years with disabilities.
- Searched seven databases and conducted reference hand-searching.
- Included 21 studies in the final analysis.
Key Points:
- PA levels in young children with disabilities show significant variation based on disability type and measurement methods.
- Overall, the reviewed studies indicate low levels of physical activity participation among this population.
- There is a notable underrepresentation in the measurement and reporting of PA in young children with disabilities.
Conclusions:
- Low physical activity levels are prevalent in young children with disabilities.
- Further research is needed to accurately measure and report PA in this vulnerable group.
- Addressing PA disparities is essential for promoting healthy development in children with disabilities.

