Evaluation of Effectiveness of Child-oriented Goal-setting in Paediatric Rehabilitation (the ENGAGE Approach)

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF ALBERTA · Sep 17, 2019

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a new way of setting goals for children with disabilities who are receiving rehabilitation therapy. The focus is on a child-friendly approach called the ENGAGE method, which encourages children aged 5 to 12 years with conditions like Autism Spectrum Disorder, Cerebral Palsy, and other neurodevelopmental disorders to be active participants in deciding their therapy goals. By comparing this new method to the usual therapy practices, researchers hope to find out if ENGAGE helps children perform better, feel more satisfied with their progress, and improve their overall quality of life.

To participate, children need to be between 5 and 12 years old, have a diagnosed disability, and be able to engage in the goal-setting process. They should also be receiving physical or occupational therapy and speak English. During the trial, children will either follow the ENGAGE approach or the standard therapy approach, depending on which group their therapist is assigned to. Parents and children will also share their experiences and thoughts on how well the ENGAGE method worked. This study aims to find better ways to help children and their families succeed in rehabilitation and to see which method is more cost-effective for therapy services.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion criteria are children with a diagnosed disability who:
• • 1. are between the ages of 5-12 years
• • 2. are able to engage in the goal-setting process (determined by therapists)
• • 3. are referred to PT and/or OT for a period of direct treatment
• • 4. speak English.
• Children will be excluded from the trial if:
• • 1. the parent or guardian who attends therapy does not speak English
• • 2. the child has a diagnosis that suggests developmental regression
• • 3. the child has uncontrolled seizures (i.e., seizure within the past 2 months).