Level Up Your Adapted P.E. Game: Why Just Adapt It Is a Must-Have Resource

Introduction: The Need for Practical APE Tools

Adapted Physical Education (APE) is one of the most rewarding areas of teaching—but also one of the most challenging. As teachers, we’re constantly balancing individualized needs, IEP goals, classroom management, and limited resources. What makes the difference between stress and success is having practical tools we can grab, adapt, and use immediately with students.

That’s why I love sharing resources that make our jobs easier while helping every student feel successful in physical education. Today, I’m spotlighting Matt Barker’s new book, Just Adapt It, which offers over 140 real-world tested adaptations for inclusive teaching.

But before we dive into the book, let’s pause to reflect on how the school year has started.

Reflecting on September: Wins and Challenges

September is always a whirlwind in education. New classes, new students, new IEPs, and sometimes new schools or colleagues—it can feel overwhelming. But it’s also a month full of possibilities and small victories.

I’d love to know:

• What went well for you this September? Did you try new routines, visuals, or activities that clicked with your students?

• What challenges popped up? Maybe transitions were tricky, or equipment wasn’t as accessible as you hoped.

Sharing these experiences builds our community and reminds us we’re not alone. If you used any of my resources from The Ultimate Adapted P.E. Manual, I’d love to hear your feedback—what worked, what didn’t, and what ideas you have for the future.

Spotlight on Just Adapt It

What Is It?

Matt Barker’s Just Adapt It is a powerful guide for teachers who want more than theory. It’s about real-world solutions you can put into practice immediately. The book includes over 140 adaptations designed to help students with diverse needs succeed in physical education.

Why It Stands Out

What sets this book apart is its practicality. Instead of long explanations or abstract models, you’ll find clear instructions, examples, and modifications that can be applied across grade levels and ability levels.

Key features include:

• Equipment adaptations: Simple changes that make sports and activities more accessible.

• Teaching strategies: Ways to break down skills, scaffold learning, and encourage independence.

• Classroom management tips: Ideas to keep students engaged while maintaining safety and structure.

• Inclusivity mindset: The message that adapting doesn’t mean limiting—it means creating opportunities.

👉 Learn more and get your copy at justadaptit.com.

Why Practical Resources Matter in APE

Every Adapted P.E. teacher knows the struggle: you want to create meaningful, inclusive lessons, but your time is limited. You’re writing IEPs, managing equipment, and juggling schedules. That’s where books like Just Adapt It (and yes, my own Ultimate Adapted P.E. Manual) come in.

Practical resources provide:

1. Time Savings – You don’t have to reinvent the wheel.

2. Proven Strategies – These adaptations are tested in real classrooms, not just theory.

3. Confidence Boost – When you have tools ready to go, you feel more prepared.

4. Student Success – At the end of the day, adaptations mean more students can participate fully.

My Top 3 Adaptations from Just Adapt It

While the book is packed with great ideas, here are three that stood out to me:

1. Simplifying Games with Visual Rules– Instead of long verbal instructions, provide rule cards or visual reminders students can refer to. This keeps games flowing and reduces confusion.

2. Equipment Swaps for Accessibility– Using lighter, larger balls or targets that make catching, throwing, and striking easier for students with motor challenges. These small changes make a huge impact on confidence.

3. Choice Boards for Activities– Giving students options (e.g., different ways to complete a skill or exercise) promotes autonomy and ensures everyone finds success at their level.

These strategies aren’t complicated, but they’re powerful. And that’s the beauty of Just Adapt It: simple ideas that bring big results.

Building Community Through Shared Resources

One of the best parts of working in Adapted P.E. is the supportive community of educators. We share lesson plans, equipment hacks, and encouragement. Books like Just Adapt It and The Ultimate Adapted P.E. Manual are part of that larger network of collaboration.

Let’s keep that spirit alive:

• Share your favorite adaptations in the comments.

• Drop your wins and challenges from September.

• Let’s problem-solve together as we head into October and beyond.

Where to Find More Resources

If you’re looking to stock your professional toolbox, here are two excellent starting points:

• Matt Barker’s Just Adapt It👉 justadaptit.com

• Sarah Fuller’s The Ultimate Adapted P.E. Manual👉 easyadaptedpe.com

Together, these resources provide hundreds of adaptations, visuals, lesson plans, and strategies to help you build an inclusive and effective APE program.

Final Thoughts

Adapted Physical Education is about giving every student the opportunity to move, play, and succeed. With resources like Just Adapt It, we’re reminded that adapting isn’t about lowering expectations—it’s about removing barriers and opening doors.

As you head into the rest of the school year, remember that you’re not alone. Our community is here, and we have powerful tools to make a real difference.

So let’s share, learn, and keep adapting—because every student deserves to thrive in physical education. 🚀

Hashtags for Sharing:#AdaptedPE #JustAdaptIt #InclusiveEducation #EasyAdaptedPE #TeachingTips #PhysicalEducation #AdaptiveSports