‘The ice palace’: enhancing migrant children’s feeling of belonging through winter outdoor practices in Russian schools

This article examines the challenges faced by migrant children in outdoor winter physical education lessons in Russian schools. The integration of these students can be hindered by unfamiliarity with winter sports and a lack of culturally responsive pedagogy. Through an analysis of existing literature and qualitative data, this study highlights the disparities in performance and the potential for demotivation and frustration experienced by migrant children. It emphasizes the universal need for preliminary programs and tailored instruction to address these integration challenges, advocating for inclusive practices that recognize physical aptitude as a ‘special educational need’ in diverse educational settings. Furthermore, the article underscores the critical importance of culturally sensitive communication and robust support systems to facilitate successful integration and promote a sense of belonging among migrant children in physical education settings worldwide, aligning with broader international efforts to ensure equitable educational opportunities for all students.