A Novel Program Using Ride-on Toys to Improve Upper Extremity Function in Children With Hemiplegia

Description

The purpose of this study is to assess the feasibility and utility of 2 types of play-based training programs co-delivered by researchers and caregivers within home/community settings to promote arm function among 3-to-8-year-old children with hemiplegia. Specifically, investigators will assess the feasibility of implementation and acceptance/satisfaction associated with a researcher-caregiver co-delivered community-based training program involving either joystick-operated powered ride-on toys (SPEED training) or creative upper extremity training (CRAFT training). The investigators will also compare the effects of these 2 types of training programs on children's arm motor function and spontaneous use of their affected arm during daily activities.

Conditions

Hemiplegia, Cerebral Palsy, Children, Only

Study Overview

Study Details

Study overview

The purpose of this study is to assess the feasibility and utility of 2 types of play-based training programs co-delivered by researchers and caregivers within home/community settings to promote arm function among 3-to-8-year-old children with hemiplegia. Specifically, investigators will assess the feasibility of implementation and acceptance/satisfaction associated with a researcher-caregiver co-delivered community-based training program involving either joystick-operated powered ride-on toys (SPEED training) or creative upper extremity training (CRAFT training). The investigators will also compare the effects of these 2 types of training programs on children's arm motor function and spontaneous use of their affected arm during daily activities.

A Novel, Child-friendly, Home-based Navigation Training Program Using Joystick-operated Ride-on Toys to Improve Upper Extremity Function in Children With Hemiplegia: A Pilot Study

A Novel Program Using Ride-on Toys to Improve Upper Extremity Function in Children With Hemiplegia

Condition
Hemiplegia
Intervention / Treatment

-

Contacts and Locations

Storrs

Physical Therapy Program, Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, Connecticut, United States, 06269

Participation Criteria

Researchers look for people who fit a certain description, called eligibility criteria. Some examples of these criteria are a person's general health condition or prior treatments.

For general information about clinical research, read Learn About Studies.

Eligibility Criteria

  • * Boys and girls between the ages of 3 - 8 years
  • * Diagnosed with hemiplegia by a medical doctor with clear asymmetry in upper extremity strength and control (i.e., one upper limb is clearly weaker than the other)
  • * Can maintain a supported sitting position for at least 15 minutes
  • * Only lower limb involvement
  • * Recent history (within past 6 months) of trauma or surgery or Botox
  • * Uncorrected blindness/profound visual impairment
  • * Fixed deformities at wrist or hand
  • * No active control in affected UE
  • * Inability to follow 2-step directions
  • * Weight \> 150 lbs.

Ages Eligible for Study

3 Years to 8 Years

Sexes Eligible for Study

ALL

Accepts Healthy Volunteers

No

Collaborators and Investigators

University of Connecticut,

Study Record Dates

2026-09-01