Child-Oriented Goal-Setting for Pediatric Rehabilitation
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if a child-focused goal-setting approach called ENGAGE (child-oriented goal-setting) can improve therapy outcomes for children with disabilities. The study will compare results from those using ENGAGE with those receiving usual care, focusing on goal achievement, daily life impact, and family satisfaction. It will also assess whether ENGAGE is more cost-effective than traditional methods. Children diagnosed with a disability, who speak English, and are referred for physical or occupational therapy are eligible to participate. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity for families to contribute to innovative research that could enhance therapy for children with disabilities.
Do I need to stop my current medications for this trial?
The trial protocol does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if your child has uncontrolled seizures, they cannot participate in the trial.
What prior data suggests that the ENGAGE approach is safe for children in pediatric rehabilitation?
Research has shown that the ENGAGE approach, which focuses on setting goals for children in rehabilitation, is generally well-received. Related studies indicate that children, parents, and therapists find this approach boosts motivation and involvement in therapy. Major reports of negative effects linked to the ENGAGE method have not emerged, suggesting it is safe for children with developmental disabilities. However, it is important to note that this method involves setting goals and strategies rather than serving as a medical treatment, which typically means it is less likely to cause physical side effects.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the ENGAGE approach for pediatric rehabilitation because it centers on child-oriented goal-setting, making it distinct from traditional methods. Unlike standard treatments that might focus more on therapist-directed goals, ENGAGE empowers children by involving them directly in the goal-setting process using tools like the Perceived Efficacy and Goal Setting Tool (PEGS) and the Pediatric Activity Card Sort (PACS). This approach also incorporates motivational interviewing and strategies to boost self-efficacy, which can foster a child's perceived competence and engagement. The personalized and motivational nature of ENGAGE could potentially improve the effectiveness of rehabilitation by aligning goals with the child's own aspirations and capabilities.
What evidence suggests that the ENGAGE approach is effective for pediatric rehabilitation?
Research has shown that the ENGAGE approach, tested in this trial, involves children in setting their own therapy goals and can greatly improve results in pediatric rehabilitation. Participants in this trial may receive the ENGAGE approach. Studies have found that when children help set their own goals, they become more motivated and involved in their therapy. This method identifies goals that excite children, leading to better participation and satisfaction with their progress. Early findings suggest that this approach can improve children's abilities and quality of life, making it a promising strategy in rehabilitation settings.12345
Who Is on the Research Team?
Lesley Pritchard-Wiart, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Alberta, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for children aged 5-12 with neurodevelopmental disabilities like autism or cerebral palsy, who are referred to physical or occupational therapy and can participate in goal-setting. They must speak English, as should their guardian. Children with developmental regression or uncontrolled seizures are excluded.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Children participate in the ENGAGE approach to goal setting or usual practice based on the allocation of their therapist. Treatment block lengths vary from 3-8 sessions over 2-8 weeks.
Post-treatment Assessment
Identical assessments are conducted within 10 days of completing therapy to evaluate goal performance, satisfaction, and other outcomes.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in goal performance, satisfaction, and quality of life at 3 months post-treatment.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- ENGAGE approach (child-oriented goal-setting)
ENGAGE approach (child-oriented goal-setting) is already approved in Canada for the following indications:
- Paediatric rehabilitation for neurodevelopmental disabilities
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Alberta
Lead Sponsor
Alberta Health services
Collaborator