Systematization of the experience of participation in an inclusive multisport workshop for neurodivergent children and youth

Abstract

Introduction: Occupational participation in sports promotes social inclusion, well-being, and holistic development among neurodivergent children and youth; however, challenges remain in community settings regarding access to and continuity of inclusive and adapted sports spaces. Within this context, the TEA Sports Center in the municipality of San Miguel, Chile, emerged as an initiative aimed at creating inclusive sports experiences. Objective: To systematize the experience of an inclusive multisport workshop and describe the perceived effects on neurodivergent children and youth and their caregivers. Methods: Experience systematization using a qualitative exploratory-descriptive approach, conducted between March and July 2025. Six children and youth and six caregivers participated. Data were collected through document review, group discussions, participant observation, and field notes, and were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: The experience was positively valued, highlighting a safe, inclusive, and collaborative environment that fostered motivation for physical activity, a sense of belonging, and meaningful participation. Improvements were observed in attention, frustration tolerance, motor coordination, and participation in activities of daily living, evidenced both within the workshop setting and through reports of their transfer to everyday life. Caregivers reported increased social support and validation of their caregiving role. Conclusion: The sports center is configured as a community space that promotes well-being, social participation, and social cohesion, fostering a sense of belonging and validation of the caregiving role. Inclusive sport emerges as a meaningful occupation that contributes to social inclusion by expanding opportunities for participation in community contexts.