A scoping review of adapted physical activity interventions for children and youth with disabilities using international classification of functioning, disability and health: children and youth version as a reference

Purpose: Adapted physical activity (APA) provides children and youth with disabilities more opportunities to be physically active. Nevertheless, it is not well known how APA implementation in different services has benefited them. This study reviews the existing literature on APA interventions to identify characteristics and program descriptions, and to primarily synthesize information relating to the goals, for children and youth with disabilities.Methods: A literature search was performed using (1) electronic databases Scopus and EBSCO ALL and (2) manual and individual scrutinization of the four major APA journals. The characteristics and program were summarized narratively, and outcome items were extracted using the established International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health: Children and Youth version (ICF-CY) linking rules.Results: Thirty-five APA intervention studies published between 1987 and 2020 (with the majority in North America, since 2000) were included. Children with autism are the largest target group. Rich and diverse programs implemented were proved to be effective. Among the 184 outcome items coded within the categories of ICF-CY, 48% focused on Body Functions while 52% focused on Activities and Participation.Conclusions: This scoping review provides APA professionals and non-professionals (e.g. guardians) a broader and systematic overview on existing APA interventions for children and youth with disabilities.