Supplementary file 3_Bonheur en boule: an adapted group-based physical activity program for youth with disabilities.docx

Introduction Youth with disabilities face significant barriers to physical activity (PA) participation, despite its documented benefits across cognitive, social, affective, and physical domains. Physical literacy (PL) and self-determination theory (SDT) offer complementary frameworks for designing adapted PA programs that foster autonomy, competence, and relatedness. However, limited research integrates both frameworks in adapted PA programs. This study evaluates the impact of Bonheur en boule (BEB), an adapted group-based PA program, on basic psychological needs, global self-esteem, and PA intentions of youth with disabilities while also assessing parental satisfaction. Methods A mixed-methods approach was used. Eleven youth (Mage = 13.27, SD = 5.42) with various disabilities participated in the BEB program, consisting of two 15-week sessions of adapted Dek Hockey (Ball hockey). Quantitative measures assessed participants' basic psychological needs (autonomy, competence, relatedness), global self-esteem, and PA intentions at three time points. Non-parametric tests (Friedman and Wilcoxon signed-rank) were used for statistical analyses. Parent satisfaction was evaluated through semi-structured interviews, analyzed using content analysis. Results Significant improvements were observed across all three basic psychological needs and global self-esteem. Competence and autonomy satisfaction increased notably between the first and second time points (p < 0.01), while global self-esteem improved later in the program (p < 0.01). All participants (n = 11) expressed intentions to continue both PA and the program. Parental feedback highlighted positive changes in children's cognitive (e.g., attention, problem-solving), social (e.g., friendships, teamwork), affective (e.g., emotional regulation, confidence), and physical (e.g., motor skills, endurance) development. Parents also valued the program's inclusive approach and flexibility. Discussion Findings suggest that an SDT and PL based PA program can foster ...