Early Identification of Motor Delays

The American Academy of Pediatrics has published new research on early identification and evaluation of motor delays and variations in muscle tone.   A multidisciplinary expert panel developed an algorithm for the surveillance and screening of children for motor delays using formal developmental screenings at 9,18,30 and 48 month well child visits. The additional 48 month […]

Truly Learning a New Skill

Did you ever stop to assess whether some of your students have truly learned a new skill when you mark off “goal achieved” on a IEP?  Meaning has the child learned the skill so that it can be performed with no physical or verbal cues?  Does the child choose to use the skill in all […]

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Treadmill Training Effects on Balance

Recent research was completed that compared treadmill training versus overground walking effects on balance skills using a randomized controlled trial with blinded evaluator. The participants were children with cerebral palsy ages 3-12, GMFCS levels I through III. The experimental group received 30 minute treadmill training session two times per week for 7 weeks. The control […]

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Active Videogaming and Children

A recent study in the Journal of Pediatrics indicated the benefits of exergaming for children.  The researchers studied 15 children, ages 9-11 years old, participating in high intensity exergaming, low intensity exergaming and a graded exercise test on a treadmill.  The results indicated the following: high intensity exergaming (Kinect hurdles) was equivalent to moderate intensity […]

Social Skills and Early Powered Mobility

Assistive Technology published research on social skills and early powered mobility.  The participants included 23 children with physical disabilities between the ages of 18 months and 6 years of age.  Data was collected at wheelchair evaluation, wheelchair delivery, and approximately 6 months later.   The following results were seen: significant increases were found in parental perceptions […]