Authentic methods to explore their health and well-being effects from participation in recreational activities, with non-verbal and non-ambulant children with cerebral palsy-a case series design.

Pickering, Dawn ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4779-5616, Gill, Paul ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4056-3230 and Reagon, Carly ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6370-3705 2023. Authentic methods to explore their health and well-being effects from participation in recreational activities, with non-verbal and non-ambulant children with cerebral palsy-a case series design. Presented at: 21st International COMET Conference, University of Cork, Ireland, 20-22 June 2023.

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Abstract

Purpose This paper authentically represents the voices of non-verbal children with cerebral palsy using a case series design. Policy suggests that children should have the right to play and leisure opportunities, however non-verbal and non-ambulant children with cerebral palsy have fewer choices. Additionally, children with communication, learning and mobility limitations are usually excluded from research. The aim of this research was to capture the ‘voices’ of participants by exploring their well-being impact in terms of their experiences and choices about their level of participation in recreational activities. Methods A qualitative case series study included interviews, observations, non-identifiable photographs and diaries. Where possible, the diaries were completed by both caregivers and children. Data were analysed individually, then across case analysis. Results Seven children aged nine to sixteen years participated. Three overall themes were identified: participation enhancers, champions for well-being and hindrances to participation. The findings showed how equipment, people and environments enabled or hindered their participation. The children also advocated as champions for their own well-being. Positioning theory was applied across the data sets and this theory was adapted to include those who cannot speak, offering a way to better understand the children’s well-being responses. This is represented by a kaleidoscope of well-being, illustrating how well-being can fluctuate in different contexts. Further research is needed to understand what well-being means to this underserved group. Conclusion The findings demonstrate how these children were able to self-advocate, demonstrating their well-being by their intentional behaviours from their level of participation in a recreational activity.

Item Type:	Conference or Workshop Item (Paper)
Status:	Unpublished
Schools:	Healthcare Sciences
Subjects:	R Medicine > RJ Pediatrics > RJ101 Child Health. Child health services
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Non-verbal communication; Self advocacy; Children with Cerebral palsy; Participation in recreational activities; Positioning theory; Well-being.
Funders:	Chartered Society of Physiotherapy Charitable trust
Last Modified:	21 Jul 2023 10:30
URI:	https://orca.cardiff.ac.uk/id/eprint/160478

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