Physiotherapy aspects of overseas developments for children with developmental disabilities

This paper describes the findings of a study tour investigating the provision of physiotherapy services for children with developmental disabilities. It was found that early intervention programmes were paramount, particularly in the U.S.A. Major trends, such as the use of transdisciplinary approaches, as well as the specific techniques evolving from them, including task analysis and the use of written behavioural objectives, should be noted and utilised by physiotherapists. Efforts to improve the lifestyle of the children and of their families were studied, including successful family support services in Norway. Finally, several recommendations relating to early intervention and to preschool and school services have been suggested.