One of the exciting recent trends in the field of special physical education is the development of appropriate learning experiences for students with severe handicapping conditions. Until very recently those who deviated significantly from the societal norm were frequently committed to institutions where they would reside for their entire lives. Unfortunately, the institutions into which the severely handicapped were placed were usually underfunded and understaffed. The conditions in many of these institutions were dehumanizing and without the necessary resources to provide treatment, rehabilitation, and educational programs. Fortunately, today there is a new international commitment to accept the severely handicapped as citizens with the same basic needs and rights as all citizens.