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Modified Ride-on Car Use by Children With Complex Medical Needs
Samuel W Logan1, Heather A Feldner, James C Galloway
1Social Mobility Lab and PlayTech Workshop (Dr Logan), School of Biological and Population Health Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon; Department of Physical Therapy (Ms Feldner), University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, Illinois; Pediatric Mobility Lab and Design Studio (Dr Galloway), Department of Physical Therapy and Biomechanics and Movement Sciences Program, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware; Department of Occupational Therapy and Graduate Institute of Behavioral Sciences (Dr Huang), Healthy Aging Research Center, Chang Gung University, Kwei-Shan Tao-Yuan, Taiwan.
Modified ride-on cars (ROC) offer feasible and enjoyable powered mobility for children with complex medical needs, enabling independent exploration and recreation.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Rehabilitation
- Assistive Technology
- Child Development
Background:
- Children with complex medical needs often have limited mobility options.
- Exploring the environment and engaging in play are crucial for development.
- Powered mobility devices can enhance independence and quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility of using modified ride-on cars (ROC) for children with complex medical needs.
- To evaluate the potential for exploration and enjoyment through short-term ROC use.
Main Methods:
- A single-subject research design was employed.
- Three children aged 6 months to 5 years participated.
- Children's use of modified ROCs was video-recorded.
Main Results:
- All participants successfully learned to operate the modified ROC independently.
- Two out of three children showed significant enjoyment during ROC use.
- Modified ROCs facilitated independent mobility and exploration.
Conclusions:
- Modified ride-on cars are a viable and enjoyable powered mobility solution.
- ROC use is feasible for children with complex medical needs.
- This technology can promote independence and enhance the lives of children with disabilities.
