“A lifeline to belonging”: exploring caregiver’s perspectives on quality participation in Easter Seals’ adapted physical activity and parasport programs

BACKGROUND: Inclusive adapted physical activity and parasport programs support physical and psychosocial well-being of children experiencing disability. Easter Seals offers opportunities for children of all abilities to engage in physical activity through introductory parasports. PURPOSE: Our evaluation aimed to understand caregiver's perspectives on quality participation in Easter Seals programs. METHODS: We collected quantitative and qualitative data through surveys followed by semi-structured interviews to further explore survey data findings. Survey data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and interviews using reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS: Surveys highlighted caregiver-perceived participant satisfaction and a caregiver-perceived positive impact of programs on participants' physical and psychosocial well-being. Five themes were generated: (1) caregiver support and dedication, (2) meaningful participation, (3) mastery of skills, (4) thriving alongside peers, and (5) hopes for the future. CONCLUSION: Findings illustrate the importance of thoughtfully designed programs, focused on quality participation, for children experiencing disability and their families.