Culturally Adapted Physical Activity Interventions for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Parents of Individuals with Disabilities

This article highlights the importance of culturally adapted physical activity (PA) interventions for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CLD) parents of children with disabilities (e.g. immigrant parents). It introduces a framework consisting of eight culturally grounded dimensions designed to enhance the relevance, engagement, and effectiveness of PA interventions. Cultural adaptation, as defined by Bernal et al. (2009), involves modifying evidence-based treatments to align with the language, culture, and context of the target population. In this context, parental advocacy is essential for promoting PA programs in community settings; however, many CLD parents face challenges due to limited knowledge of PA, along with cultural and linguistic differences. These barriers hinder their ability to support their children’s participation. The article emphasizes the need for researchers to understand cultural group needs, develop culturally appropriate interventions, and foster a welcoming environment for CLD parents. By providing accessible and culturally relevant information, CLD parents are more likely to actively participate in PA interventions, leading to better outcomes for children with disabilities (Bernal et al. 2009; Cotton & Savard, 1982).