Environmental Considerations in Social Participation of Children With Developmental Disabilities

The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized social participation as a crucial element to child development. Participation is involvement in life situations and is a necessary element of development, in that children learn about societal expectations and relationships or interactions. Participation is also an opportunity for children to practice and hone skills, such as cooperation and self-advocacy, that will be necessary for them to independently manage themselves in their homes and communities. Participation has been linked to positive outcomes, including life satisfaction, school achievement, and social relationships. However, children with disabilities are at a disadvantage in their ability to participate similarly to their peers. This entry reviews the importance of participation in children with disabilities and discusses factors that influence this participation.