From "No" to "GO-GO!" using ride-on cars to expand social interactions

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Authors
Marshall, Haley
Talbot, Kiersten
Porter, Kaitlin
Gard, Courtney
Ramos, Erica
Advisors
Shelden, M'Lisa
Issue Date
2022-04-29
Type
Abstract
Keywords
Research Projects
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Journal Issue
Citation
Marshall, H.; Talbot, K.; Porter, K.; Gard, C.; Ramos, E. 2022. From "No" to "GO-GO!" using ride-on cars to expand social interactions -- In Proceedings: 18th Annual Symposium on Graduate Research and Scholarly Projects. Wichita, KS: Wichita State University
Abstract

Research shows that childhood developmental domains overlap and impact each other such that a delay in motor skills negatively influences a child's cognition, social interaction, and communication.1 This case study examined the views of the founder of the Wichita State University's GoBabyGo program on the effect providing powered mobility, in the form of a modified ride-on toy car, had on children with disabilities' communication and social interaction. A semi-structured zoom interview was conducted with Beth Watkins, speech-language pathologist, founder, and current board member of Wichita State University's GoBabyGo chapter. GoBabyGo modifies ride-on toy cars for children age 0-5 with disabilities to meet their specific needs and provide independent powered mobility. Beth works in a local early intervention program and has 25 years of clinical experience and 116 GoBabyGo builds to date. The interview detailed the qualitative effects on development seen in the children she serves before and after receiving a ride on toy car from GoBabyGo. The interview was transcribed and analyzed for themes. The major themes found were 1) the car as a motivator for increased exploration of the child's environment, 2) the car as a means to practice repetitive motor patterns needed for communication and motor development, and 3) the car as a means to expand social interactions and gain positively reinforced reactions. In conclusion, this study contributes to the existing literature and suggests early powered mobility should be considered as a potential intervention for children who would benefit from independent movement experiences to enhance their interaction with the environment and improve their social and language development. 1. Houwen S, Visser L, van der Putten A, Vlaskamp C. The interrelationships between motor, cognitive, and language development in children with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities. . 2016;53-54:19-31. doi:10.1016/j.ridd.2016.01.012

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Description
Presented to the 18th Annual Symposium on Graduate Research and Scholarly Projects (GRASP) held at the Rhatigan Student Center, Wichita State University, April 29, 2022
Research completed in the Department of Physical Therapy, College of Health Professions
Publisher
Wichita State University
Journal
Book Title
Series
GRASP
v. 18
PubMed ID
DOI
ISSN
EISSN