Power mobility through play for children with limited movements

Studies have shown that children with limited mobility demonstrate limitations in many other developmental domains. Livingstone and colleagues (2020) found that children who can move independently can explore the environment, significantly influencing the development of cognition, perception, socialization, and movement. The ecological and dynamic systems theories emphasize the importance of engagement in activities in early development, focusing on functionality, contextual factors, active exploration, and participation (Huang, 2018). When a child has limited interaction within their environment, participation in occupational performance is altered (Law et al., 1996). Through a systemic review of the literature, Kenyon and colleagues (2021) found that young children with limited mobility who utilized a power mobility device showed significant positive effects on development, participation, and overall independence. This review of research also indicated increases in the children’s autonomy and personal control to participate in meaningful experiences.