The Effects of Group-Based Aquatic Exercise Programs on Motor Function and Social Skills in Children with Disabilities: A Comparative Analysis by Intellectual Ability Levels

Purpose: This study aimed to examine the effects of a group-based aquatic exercise program on the motor and social functions of children with developmental disabilities and to compare outcomes according to intellectual ability levels.Methods: Twelve children with developmental disabilities participated in a 10-week group-based aquatic exercise program, conducted once a week for 40 minutes.Participants were stratified by intellectual level (mild or moderate) and randomly assigned to four groups of three.Physical and social functions were evaluated before and after the intervention using the Water Orientation Test of Alyn (WOTA-1), Krperkoordinationstest fr Kinder (KTK), Social Skills Rating System (SSRS), and Korean Pediatric Balance Scale (K-PBS).Data were analyzed using a Linear Mixed Model (LMM) with a significance level set at p < 0.05.Results: Significant improvements were found in aquatic adaptability, coordination, balance, and social skills including cooperation, assertion, and self-control after the program (p<0.01).No significant group time interaction was observed, suggesting similar improvement patterns across both intellectual ability levels. Conclusion:Group-based aquatic exercise effectively enhances physical and social functions in children with developmental disabilities, supporting its clinical value as an inclusive and holistic rehabilitation intervention regardless of intellectual ability level.