Why Task-oriented training for children with cerebral palsy

In recent years the functionally-oriented therapy of children with cerebral palsy (CP; spasticity, range of motion and motor development) has been gaining more interest. Because of this, the therapy of children with CP has become more task-oriented. This shift is the result of scientific research that has demonstrated that the task-oriented approach has effect in children with CP. The task-oriented therapy is based on the latest insights on motor learning and the theory behind it. Another important starting point of the task-oriented training is that specific motor tasks or activities are trained with which a child has actual problems. The choice of tasks is based on the treatment demands of the child and parents. The COPM and the GAS are relevant instruments. The function-oriented research and the observation are of importance within the clinical reasoning in order to determine the possibilities of the child to adapt. A third important starting point is the task analysis. As a professional the therapist will have to reduce the treatment demand to essential tasks and will have to be able to analyze these tasks based on observation and measurement. The task-analysis model based on “sections and task elements” is being used for this. After the task analysis, training and learning of the task in the right context is important. The eventual goal of the treatment is to ensure that, where possible, the solutions for movement problems will be done maximum justice when it comes to school skills and activities within the family or in leisure time.

Meant for whom

You are a physiotherapist or occupational therapist, you work with children with CP and you would like to learn more about the taskoriented
approach. You would like to learn how to ‘play with training material’ by applying it in practice.

The program

The training will take four contact days. The first day will cover the theoretical models of task-oriented practicing, motor learning and training. Task analysis will be dealt with on day two and therapy on day three. The fourth day all participants will present a case study. The trainer will reflect on the case studies.

Methodology

The training consists of theoretical introductions, after which you will work on making a treatment plan and working out the treatment.

Time investment

The training will take four one-day meetings.

The result

After the training you will know the principles of task-oriented treatment at the application level, you will be able to make a task analysis and you will be able to come up with suitable practice material for every individual child and apply it.

The diploma

If you have successfully completed the training, you will receive a certificate.

Location of the training and start period

These trainings are offered in-company. Location and dates will be determined in consultation with the parties involved. Please contact an Avans+
employee at info@avansplus.nl or visit www.avansplus.com.