The Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for Preschoolers With Disabilities: Occupational Therapists' Perspectives

Background. This study explores occupational therapists' (OTs) perceptions of using the Canadian 24-Hour Movement Guidelines for the Early Years in their practice with preschool-aged clients (aged 3-4 years) with developmental disabilities. Methods. This study captured perspectives of the guidelines from OTs working in Canada via in-depth, virtual interviews (n = 11). Applied, deductive thematic analysis situated in the knowledge, attitudes, behavior framework, which provides a structured approach to understanding and addressing healthcare practitioners' perspectives on implementing guidelines in practice, was conducted. Findings. Eight themes were identified: awareness and familiarity; agreement; outcome expectancy; self-efficacy; motivation; external-clients; external-guideline use; and external-environment. The results illustrate that while OTs may be motivated to incorporate the guidelines, concerns regarding their rigidity and applicability to diverse client needs hinder application in practice. Conclusion. The study highlights the need for additional resources and training to enhance OTs' ability to adapt and apply the guidelines effectively, ensuring they meet the individual needs of children with developmental disabilities. This research underscores the potential for OTs to play a crucial role in promoting healthful movement behaviors in early childhood through the tailored application of the guidelines.