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Faculty Advisors

Sabet, Andrina; Wendland, Madalynn

Description

This theoretical literature review aims to define the components of an enriched environment (EE) while using a multi-directional, over-ground harness system (MOH), for pre-ambulatory children with Down syndrome (DS). While using an EE has not been clearly defined within humans, children with DS may benefit from this combination of interventions to optimize developmental outcomes. Of the 15 articles critiqued, 6 were found to be most relevant to help define an EE with specific activities when using a MOH for pre-ambulation training. As a part of defining an EE within a MOH, activities will be suggested that stimulate the four components of an EE: social, sensory, cognitive and motor skill acquisition. This description will include specific parameters such as the motor action to be elicited, the position of child within the harness, how the environmental should be set up, specifics regarding task implementation and examples of toys to utilize to enhance the emergence of motor skills, including independent walking. Although ensuring the presence of all components of an EE can be challenging, the optimization of outcomes from using an MOH in an EE in young children with DS may allow for improved function and quality of life long-term.

Publication Date

2016

College

College of Sciences and Health Professions

Disciplines

Life Sciences | Medicine and Health Sciences | Physical Sciences and Mathematics

Defining an Enriched Environment for Pre-Ambulation Training using a Multi-Directional, Over-Ground Harness System for Young Children with Down Syndrome

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