Passed in 1991, the ADA requires providers to make reasonable accommodations to their policies and practices to integrate children with disabilities. For example, if your child needs a float or other adaptive equipment in the pool, you could ask the staff for this simple exception to their rules. Sometimes you don’t know exactly what accommodations your child will need. The best way to find
out is to ask for a formal assessment of your child by a therapeutic recreation specialist. If an assessment is not feasible, another option is to meet with the people who run the program and discuss ways for your child to participate. Although you may be reluctant to bring up your child’s disability,
it is best to be very clear from the beginning so that program staff can better help your child.

Making facilities physically accessible is one form of accommodation, but another form is programmatic. Your child may need a PCA or staff person to help him participate. You are not required to pay the cost of the additional staff. The provider must make that accommodation under the law. ADA does have some limitations, however. If your child is 7 and you wish to sign her up for
a program for 3-5 year olds, ADA does not give your child the right to be included in that program.

When you discuss options with recreation providers, have a give-and-take attitude, and be willing to bring creative solutions to the table. Some programs are good at adaptive recreational programming, but others might be somewhat resistant. If you find that your provider has little experience dealing with persons with disabilities, you can contact Arc at (952) 920-0855 for advice or help.