2015. Morgan + Novak. Optimising Motor Learning In Infants At High Risk Of CP: Pilot Study

Question 1

What does recent neuroplasticity literature suggest is needed for neuro-rehabilitation for children with CP?

(2015. Morgan)

Answer 1

Intensive, task-specific intervention ought to commence
as early as possible
and in an enriched environment
during the CP of neural development

Question 2

What is the GAS (goal attainment scaling) useful for?

2015. Morgan

Answer 2

For detecting incremental change in functional abilities that might not be detected on norm-referenced tools such as Bailey scales of toddler development.

But was not appropriate in the GAME study as not sensitive enough, and too much inaccurate on of predicting by therapist and family

Question 3

What was the protocol for the GAME study?

2015. Morgan

Answer 3

1. Goal-oriented intensive motor training
2. Parent education
3. Enriched environment

Question 4

What was involved in the first part “1. Goal-oriented intensive motor training” step for GAME protocol?

(Hint: 3 parts, relates to motor learning theory)

(2015, Morgan)

Answer 4

1. Parent identified goal areas were targeted in practice in session, then developed in home program
2. therapist scaffolded all motor tasks, as infant could always actively complete as least a part of the task, and challenge then increase
3. once motor skill was learned, variability of practice was introduced to increase complexity and generalisation of the skill

Question 5

What was the focus of ‘environmental enrichement’ in the GAME study?

(2015. Morgan)

Answer 5

• Parents encouraged to set up motor enriched play environments that promote child self-generated movements, exploration, and task success
• included careful toy selection
• physical set ups of areas for practicing and repeating activities

Question 6

In the GAME study other than the set up for motor tasks what else was included in ‘environmental enrichment’?

(2015. Morgan)

Answer 6

1. Evidence-based early learning stimulation and role modelling to enhance cognitive and language development (eg. Reading books and limited tv watching)
2. Optimising sleep hygiene
3. Feeding interventions + Pain-free backdrops for learning