ParticiPAte CP is a randomized, wait-list controlled trial of a physiotherapy and behaviour change intervention. PartciPAte CP aims to test whether a combination of a counselling technique called Motivational Interviewing and contemporary physiotherapy delivered in a family-centred way can help children and their families achieve important goals related to participation in active community leisure
, recreation and sports. We want to know if this new, integrative approach to physiotherapy is effective at helping kids with CP to become more physically active. We also want to know if this approach works because it encourages the caregiver to support their child’s autonomy, or if it changes how children are motivated to engage in healthy behaviours. Children and their primary caregiver will have up to 8 face-to-face sessions with a Physiotherapist in an 8 week period. Unlike ‘regular’ Physiotherapy, this program will focus on many of the less visible barriers to full participation, rather than on the child’s visible impairments or limitations. The approach will be strengths-based, highly individualised, and purposefully designed to fit in with family life. The physiotherapist will work in partnership with the caregiver and their child to set and achieve goals related to being physically active. ALL eligible participants will receive the intervention at no cost. Children and their caregiver will need to commit to being available for follow-up assessments. Please contact the study coordinator for more information. Participants living within 200 kilometres of South Brisbane, Queensland are eligible to participate.
