While the use of powered mobility devices for young children with mobility challenges has taken off in recent years following evidence that the use of powered mobility at a young age augments other traditional mobility skill interventions, the research is still limited and focuses on physical impacts more. Recently, the...
The purpose of this study was to determine the viability of a mobile socially assistive robot (SAR) in a children’s free play environment. The researchers hypothesized that the SAR would prompt more movement among the participants. In order to test this, the researchers utilized a matched pair study in which...
People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) engage in lesser physical activity (PA) and more time in sedentary activities as compared to those without disabilities. A subset of people with IDD who are most vulnerable to develop habits detrimental to health is the emerging adults who are transitioning from adolescence...
This thesis describes the implementation of ultrasonic sensors to trigger a stimulus to increase peer interaction for children with disabilities using modified ride-on-cars for mobility. Modified ride-on-car technology has improved mobility for children with disabilities by effectively replicating the social benefits of a powered mobility device, yet there are opportunities...
Purpose: The purposes of this study are to determine the within subject and between subject effects of play markings, gross motor toys, and a larger play space on the physical activity of children with and without disabilities. Method: A group comparison design was implemented and a total of 12 children...
Self-directed mobility is a fundamental human right. Typically developing children engage in mobility for a majority of their day, but children with disabilities do not have the same opportunities. Children with disabilities are at a disadvantage and have a greater risk for developmental delays in physical and cognitive skills, along...
The way that an individual defines and understands the term “disability” has the potential to affect how they view and interact with people with disabilities. Previous research suggests that classroom interventions and frequent interactions with people who have disabilities can be effective in promoting the social model of disability and...
Physical activity and social emotional health among children have become increasingly important for children’s overall development. Recess is a time during the school day for students to have access to physical activity opportunities as well as socialize and interact with their peers. A quality recess, that is age and developmentally...
Modified ride-on cars are provided to children as a means of independent mobility. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to examine how the provision of modified ROCs to children with disabilities affects the development of problem-solving and personal-social skills. Methods: The amount of time children spent driving the modified...