Cuddling in the inclusion of students with ADHD in the physical education class

Abstract

Introduction. The inclusion of students with ADHD in Physical Education is a challenge due to the hyperactivity and inattention inherent to the disorder. Objective. To explore the use of mime through a system of body expression activities to achieve the inclusion of students with ADHD in the Physical Education class, evaluating its impact on the participation, social interaction, and motor development of these students in an inclusive educational environment. Methodology. Mixed research design, pre-experimental type, and phenomenological design. The observation technique was applied and as an instrument a quantitative observation form of 9 parameters referring to inclusion, theoretically and statistically validated, in addition to an observation of behavior in Physical Education classes. The sample consisted of 30 students from the third grade of the Elementary EGB sub-level, including 2 students with a diagnosis of ADHD. Results. After the implementation of activities based on mime, students with ADHD showed significant improvements in their participation in class, in areas such as social interaction and adaptation to routines, elements corroborated by behavioral observation. Statistical tests confirmed positive changes in all parameters evaluated, especially highlighting the increase in social and motor skills. Conclusion. Mime proved to be an effective strategy to improve the inclusion of students with ADHD in Physical Education, promoting an inclusive learning environment and facilitating the understanding of instructions. General Area of Study: Education. Specific area of study: Inclusive Physical Education. Type of study: Original articles.