Children and Young People with Cerebral Palsy's experiences of adapted dynamic cycling - interview and diary findings

Background Children and young people with Cerebral Palsy (CP) have limited opportunities for participation and there has been limited research to explore this concept1, 2.Adapted dynamic cycling (ADC) is one activity that enables them to participate in the community. They also have a variety of communication styles where communication aids, picture boards or symbols as well as gestures and sign language are used. The aim of the study was to measure the effect of ADC on lower limb muscle strength and length and explore their cycling experiences. Methods Interviews were conducted with children and an accompanying adult to tell us about their experiences before and after six session of ADC. They also kept a diary about this experience. The researchers developed the interviews as they encountered different styles of communication. The use of pictures to encourage a dialogue about cycling was helpful. Closed questions were used with images of happy or sad faces to capture more feeling about the experiences when spoken language was not possible. Observation of their non verbal communication was essential. The data transcripts were verified by the accompanying adult and analysed using a template approach. The themes were sent back to the participants for comments. Results Twenty six interviews and eight diaries were collected from seventeen children and young people aged between 2 and 17 years. The emergent themes are the firstly the impact on the child and family providing them with an opportunity to join in a recreational activity together. Secondly, their future cycling aspirations such as owning their own bike or going on a cycling holiday. Finally, the increase in social participation was evident from the new friends made and the independent cycling achieved. The children had enjoyed this adapted cycling experience. Conclusion The concept of participation requires deeper exploration for children and young people with CP3. Implications Policy makers and parents may find the information useful to enable the child’s participation