Parents' understanding of play for children with cerebral palsy

To present the findings of an exploratory study regarding the experience of play as an everyday occupation for children with severe cerebral palsy from their parents' perspective.

We took a qualitative methodology and interpretive descriptive approach. After ethical approval, 7 participants were recruited and completed an interview and contextual information sheet.

The interview data led to the exploration of four themes: typical play, burden of play, expanding the concept of play, and therapy and play. These components were interlinked and contributed to parents' understanding of play.

Occupational therapy practitioners can aim to further understand the importance of affirming typical play, recognizing the burden of play, explaining expanded play, and explaining the importance of play for play's sake.