Participation patterns and predictors of participation in preschool children with developmental disability

The research was aimed to evaluate patterns and clinical and environmental predictors of participation in preschool children with developmental disability.

Cross-sectional design was employed. Caregivers (n = 98) of children aged 9-70 months (mean = 48, SD = 1.5) with developmental disability completed a health questionnaire and the Lithuanian Young Children's Participation and Environment Measure (YC-PEM). Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regressions were performed to identify patterns and predictors of participation at home, daycare/preschool, and the community.

Participation restrictions, based on frequency and variety of activities, were mostly observed in the community setting. Both clinical and environmental factors explained at least two dimensions of participation across all settings. Of the clinical factors, the predictors of participation were found to be the severity but not the number of impairments of body structures and functions and/or activity limitations.

This study emphasizes the role of the environment and activity limitations in explaining participation of preschool children with developmental disability. Findings can re-direct practitioners' attention towards context-based assessments and interventions to promote health through participation.