New study explores how powered mobility changes caregiver perceptions

A new study led by Associate Professor Heather A. Feldner, PhD, examines how powered mobility can support very young children with significant motor disabilities and how caregivers view its impact. The paper, published in Disability and Rehabilitation: Assistive Technology, focuses on caregiver perceptions after their children participated in a 12‑session trial using a powered mobility device designed for toddlers.

In this research, children learned how to drive the Explorer Mini (Permobil, Inc.), a FDA-cleared commercial device. The Explorer Mini is controlled with a joystick and can be driven in a seated or standing position. This and other powered mobility devices allow young children to explore their environment, make choices, and move on their own during play. Research shows that this type of movement has important benefits for children, including supporting motor development, communication, and learning. 

Caregivers said that observing their children with the cars changed how they view their child’s abilities. Many caregivers described their children’s increased independence, emerging new skills, and greater confidence with movement. While most caregivers described clear benefits from their children using the devices, some also described lingering negative beliefs about powered mobility, and uncertainty about whether they would like their children to use devices in the future. However, most caregivers described a desire for better access to devices and noted the limited availability of powered mobility options that can be adapted to meet different positioning and access needs.

This study is one in a series of papers from Dr. Feldner’s broader research examining the power and impact of many forms of powered mobility, including commercial devices and adaptive ride‑on cars for young children with disabilities. Together, this body of work highlights the importance of on time self‑initiated mobility for development and play,and caregiver perspectives in expanding access to these devices.

For more information about adapted ride-on cars, visit Dr. Feldner’s lab website or the  Go Baby Go! website.