Technology in Play for Children With Physical Disabilities: the Dice Model of Play
This study explores how children, especially those with disabilities, play. It aims to develop a clearer understanding of play so that all children can participate and benefit from it. Researchers will talk to children and parents to learn what helps and hinders play. They will then use Lego robots and traditional toys with groups of children to see how these affect their play experiences. Finally, they will get feedback from experts like therapists. The goal is to create a new model, called the Dice Model of Play, which can be used to help children who struggle to play, ensuring play is seen as a right for every child, aiding their growth and development.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Play is really important for children to grow and learn, but it can be hard to define exactly what it is. For children with physical or mental disabilities, playing might be even more challenging. This study wants to understand play much better, especially for these children.
The researchers are developing something called the 'Dice Model of Play'. This model aims to help experts understand the different parts of play. If a child is struggling to play, this model could help experts figure out which part needs support. It's about making sure that every child has the opportunity and tools to play, as playing is seen as a basic right for all children.
To build and improve this model, the study will involve different steps. First, they will talk to children with disabilities and their parents to hear about their experiences with play. Then, some children will get to build and play with Lego robots, while others will play with regular toys, to see how different activities affect their play. Finally, the researchers will ask therapists and other experts what they think about the new play model, making changes along the way to make it the best it can be.
Key takeaways
- The study aims to understand how all children play, especially those with disabilities.
- It involves building and playing with Lego robots, as well as playing with traditional toys.
- The goal is to create a new model to help experts better support children's play.
- Participation includes interviews and supervised play sessions over several weeks.
- It's open to children aged 3-9 in Winnipeg, Canada, who speak English or Persian.
- Your child's involvement could help improve play opportunities for many children.
Who may be eligible?
To be part of this study, children need to be between 3 and 9 years old. They can have a disability or be developing typically, which means they don't have a diagnosed disability.
Important requirements are that the child can speak and understand either English or Persian. They also need to live in Winnipeg, Canada, where the study is taking place.
Children cannot join if they have received 'play therapy' within the last three months before the study starts. This is to make sure that any improvements in play are due to the study activities and not other therapy they might be receiving.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Is your child between 3 and 9 years old?
- Does your child speak and understand English or Persian?
- Does your child live in Winnipeg, Canada?
- Has your child NOT had play therapy in the last three months?
What does participation involve?
If your child joins this study, it will happen in three main stages. Firstly, you and your child might have an interview where you talk about your experiences with play and what helps or hinders it for your child. This helps the researchers understand real-life situations.
In the second stage, up to 20 children will take part in play sessions. Some children will first build and then play with Lego robots over four sessions, while another group will play with traditional toys for four sessions. After these sessions, the groups will swap over, so each child gets to experience both types of play. During these play sessions, an occupational therapy student, supervised by an expert, will guide the activities. Researchers will also check your child's playfulness, how much they enjoy playing, and their play skills at the beginning, when they switch activities, and at the end of this stage.
The final stage involves therapists and other experts giving their opinions on the play model. You and your child's involvement would mainly be in the first two stages. The total duration of your child's participation in the play sessions is typically over a few weeks, with some assessments spread throughout.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Rehabilitation Centre for ChildrenVerified postcodeWinnipeg, Canada· Recruiting
Common questions
What kind of robots will my child play with?
Your child will get to build and play with Lego robots, which are safe and engaging toys.
How long will each play session last?
The information doesn't specify the exact length of each session, but they will be supervised by a therapist student.
Will my child get to keep the Lego robot?
The study design details don't mention whether children get to keep the robots after the study.
What happens if my child doesn't like playing with the robots?
If your child is unhappy or wishes to stop, you have the right to withdraw them from the study at any point.
Is this study only for children with disabilities?
No, the study includes both children with disabilities and those who are developing typically, to get a broad understanding of play.
How to find out more
Minoo Dabiri Golchin, Ph.D.
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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