Play-based groups for children with cerebral palsy and their parents: A qualitative interview study about the impact on mothers' well-being.
Kirsten R Prest, Aleksandra J Borek, Anne-Marie R Boylan
PMID 35023213WHAT IT FOUND
Mothers of children with cerebral palsy valued play-based groups for practical help with therapy and education plans, and for connecting with others in similar situations.
Some struggled to open up due to language barriers or guilt, showing the need for sensitive facilitation.
Key findings
01Mothers valued the practical support, including therapy for their children and advice on Education Health and Care Plans.
02Connecting with other parents helped reduce feelings of isolation, though some found it difficult due to language barriers or guilt.
03Motivations for attending varied, with some prioritizing therapy for their child and others seeking social support.
STILL TO COME
How it was doneWhat they foundWhat it means for PTsWhat it means for OTsWhat it means for SLPs
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What it does not show
The study only included mothers who were still attending the groups, so it does not capture the experiences of those who left. All participants were mothers, excluding fathers and other caregivers. The sample size was small (10), limiting the generalizability of the findings. The study explored perceptions of well-being rather than measuring clinical outcomes or effectiveness.
Declared interests
None declared.
The easy way to misread this
Do not conclude that these groups improve clinical outcomes for children or parents. The study reports mothers' perceptions of support and connection, not measured changes in well-being or child function.