Bridging the Gap: Implementing A Powered Mobility Intervention Into Early Childhood Settings for Young Children With Cerebral Palsy (GMFCS IV-V)
Oregon Health and Science University
Summary
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if a therapist training program can help providers in Part C Early Childhood Settings use powered mobility (PM) with young children who have cerebral palsy (Gross Motor Function Classification System Levels IV-V). The study will also look at whether this training is practical and useful for therapists, families, and children. The main questions it aims to answer are: 1. Can therapists successfully use the training to provide powered mobility interventions in home and early childhood settings? 2. Do families and children find the intervention acceptable and helpful? 3. What benefits do children show in mobility, participation, and engagement after using powered mobility? In this study, therapists and families will: 1. Take part in a training program about how to use powered mobility with young children 2. Use powered mobility devices (Permobil Explorer Mini) with children during everyday routines 3. Complete surveys, interviews, and observations about their experiences
Description
Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common cause of physical disability in childhood. Children classified at Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) Levels IV-V experience significant limitations in mobility and typically require assistive technology to move independently. These early months, between 12-36 months, are a critical period for brain development and learning. Without access to independent mobility, children with CP have fewer opportunities to explore, communicate, and engage socially, which can contribute to secondary developmental delays. Power mobility (PM) devices, such…