Faculty Advisor

Jennifer Tucker, DPT, PT, PCS

Publication Date

Spring 2019

Abstract

PURPOSE: The purpose of the study was to investigate the impact of modified ride-on cars (mROC) on young children with motor impairments and their families.

METHODS: A mixed methods study was conducted which consisted of a parental survey and an in-home, play-based mROC observation. An investigator developed survey containing both open- and closed-ended questions exploring family experiences, use, and socialization with mROC was disseminated via an email invitation to 85 families who received a mROC through UCF Go Baby Go from May 2015 to March 2019. In addition, families were invited to volunteer for an in-home observation of mROC use exploring facilitators, barriers, and socialization.

RESULTS: Fifteen parents (17.6%) responded to and completed the survey representing children from 12-59 months with a mean age of 34.9 months. Survey data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. More than 70% of survey respondents agreed their child “enjoys their car”, “has more opportunities to play”, and “has improved independence”. Eight families consented to an in-home observation of modified ROC use. Field notes were taken during observations. Children’s ages ranged from 13-41 months, with a mean age of 22.3 months. A thematic analysis of the observational data found trends of increased socialization, play-based exploration, and access to enriched environments.

CONCLUSION: The outcomes of this study suggest that mROC can positively influence socialization and environmental immersion in children with mobility impairments by providing right-now-mobility.

Access Status

UCF Only

Download

Share

COinS