| Summary: | Objective: Children and adolescents with Down Syndrome have demonstrated lower levels of participation in Physical Activity than their typically developing peers. Persons diagnosed with Down Syndrome are at a higher prevalence rate for many health conditions, specifically obesity. Physical Activity has proven to be very beneficial in creating and maintaining good friendships, self-esteem and is essential to maintain a healthy life. Yet children and adolescents face many challenges to participate in these environments. Therefore, this study is focusing on the environmental barriers to participation in Physical Activity. Method: A literature search on four databases namely ERIC, CINAHL, PsycINFO and PubMed alongside with a hand search on the reference lists of the relevant articles were conducted for suitable literature to be retrieved. The inclusion criteria included were studies published in English, after the year 2000 which focus on barriers to Physical Activity among children and adolescents aged 0-18. Results: Six articles from six different countries were utilized to meet the aim of the review. The identified environmental barriers were lack of transport, negative attitudes, parental responsibilities, lack of specifically designed activities and lack of opportunities. Although some results contrasted with each other, it was identified that children and adolescents with Down Syndrome have many difficulties in the environment that obstructs them from partaking in activities. Conclusions: The hindrances to Physical Activity are different depending of various cultures the child lives. It is important to identify these barriers and find ways to eradicate them by means of supportive factors. Although children and adolescents with Down Syndrome are more prone to various health conditions that possess numerous challenges, more attention should be given in consideration for future research and interventions.
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