A mobile learning environment: a preliminary study of a developmentally progressive modified ride-on car in infants with Down Syndrome

PURPOSE: a modified ride on car (MROC) would display higher developmental scores compared to infants with no access to a MROC. METHODS: Eight infants with DS were initially provided a seated MROC later followed by a custom Sit-Stand-Power Walking (3in1) MROC with ongoing paediatric physical therapist follow-up. Infants were encouraged to use the MROC 30 min daily during family based play. These infants were compared to a database of scores from infants with DS not provided MROCs. The outcome measures were the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development 3rd edition subscales of cognition, receptive language, expressive language, fine motor, and gross motor. RESULTS: <.05). CONCLUSION: This study supports the use of advanced MROCs such as the 3in1 as a "mobile learning environment" to advance general development while simultaneously increasing daily mobility and participation. Future studies can now test more specific hypotheses, use more detailed measures, larger samples, and more advanced MROC designs.