Pediatric Pioneers Episode 8: Beyond the Clinic: How Can Adaptive Sports Transform Kids’ Lives?

Dr. Sarah Adam, Paralympic medalist, occupational therapy professor, and Team USA wheelchair rugby trailblazer, joins Nicole Quint and Pediatric Pioneers to explore the transformative power of adaptive sports for kids. Together, we delve into an evidence-based discussion of participation barriers, clinical applications, and why sports should be seen as essential—not optional—for children with disabilities. You’ll walk away with practical strategies to integrate adaptive sports into your practice, advocate for increased access, and empower young athletes to build confidence, independence, and resilience. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation on how OTs can help open the door to lifelong participation.Learning ObjectivesAnalyze the evidence around the impact of adaptive sports and exercise on physical, social, and psychological development in children with disabilitiesApply evidence-based, practical strategies to help therapists integrate adaptive sports and physical activity into therapy and daily life for children with disabilitiesExamine occupation-based solutions that promote equitable access to adaptive sports while considering the role of competition in fostering identity, confidence, and long term engagement in physical activity for children with disabilitiesTimestamps(00:00:00) Welcome(00:01:33) Introduction to adaptive sports and our guest Sarah Adam, OTD, OTR/L, CBIS(00:06:02) The importance of adaptive sports in pediatric therapy(00:12:03) Mindset shifts for families and communities(00:17:52) Research insights on adaptive sports benefits(00:19:11) Accessibility challenges and solutions in adaptive sports(00:27:14) Integration of adaptive sports in schools(00:30:32) Visibility and representation in adaptive sports(00:32:24) Interprofessional collaboration in adaptive sports(00:38:23) The importance of competitive context in sports(00:40:48) Actionable strategies for therapists(00:43:48) Success stories in adaptive sportsPediatric Pioneers is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away.To hear more episodes of Pediatric Pioneers, visit https://www.medbridge.com/pediatric-pioneersIf you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/