Measurement of Modified Toy Ride-on Car Use: The GBG Data Logger

Abstract

Over 30 years of research has demonstrated that young children with disabilities can use motorized wheelchairs for mobility and experience developmental gains such as in- creased interactions and social skills, increased exploration of the environment, increased cognitive development, including confidence and understanding of cause-and-effect relation- ships [1], [2]. A recent innovation that addresses this gap in technology is modifying off-the-shelf, battery operated modified ride-on cars. Modifications include installation of a large, easy- to-press switch that has a large surface area and responds to a light touch for activation. Published studies that examined the effect of a modified ride-on car intervention found that young children with disabilities can learn how to independently activate the switch, enjoy the driving experience, demonstrate increased peer interaction, and gain mobility skills [3], [4], [5], [6]. From a clinical perspective, the relationship between the amount of modified ride-on car use and positive developmental gains is currently unknown, in part, due to the limitations associated with reliance on caregiver self-report of children’s driving. Without this knowledge, it is difficult for pediatric physical therapists to provide evidence-based recommendations about the minimum amount of time to provide children with disabilities access to modified ride-on cars.