Movement Assessment Battery for Children (Movement ABC)
The Movement ABC assessment serves as a valuable tool in identifying any delays or impairments in motor development among children. Occupational therapists utilize this assessment to evaluate whether any such delays or impairments adversely affect a child's performance in activities both at home and in school.
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The Movement ABC assessment comprehensively considers the impact of impairments or developmental delays on childhood activities, encompassing their performance in educational and home settings.
Where and How is the Movement ABC Assessment Conducted?
The Movement ABC assessment can be conducted in various settings, including clinics, homes, or schools. It is administered by occupational therapists trained in the Movement ABC assessment, a standardized evaluation widely recognized and utilized by healthcare professionals worldwide.
Issues Suitable for a Movement ABC Assessment
Children who may benefit from a Movement ABC assessment typically exhibit symptoms such as clumsiness, poor coordination, or difficulties with smooth and continuous movements. Other signs may include frequent falls or trips, fine motor difficulties, or challenges in running, jumping, and other gross motor activities.
Conditions Assessed by Movement ABC
​Certain conditions with symptoms affecting movement necessitate a Movement ABC assessment, including dyspraxia, cerebral palsy, developmental coordination disorder, developmental delay, head injury, multiple sclerosis, Rett syndrome, stroke, and spina bifida. Even in the absence of a diagnosed condition, children struggling with various movements may benefit from a Movement ABC assessment.
​What Does the Movement ABC Assessment Evaluate?
The Movement ABC assessment provides insights into how movement difficulties impact a child's daily life, including their performance in school and home activities. This comprehensive evaluation involves detailed discussions and practical assessments to understand how movement challenges affect functionality and behavior.
Impact on School and Home Environment
Movement ABC assessment also considers the implications of movement impairments within school and home environments. Challenges in movement may hinder a child's participation in physical education or sports activities, potentially leading to feelings of isolation or exclusion among peers.
Impact on Home Life
​Assessing movement difficulties also sheds light on their impact on daily activities at home. These challenges can affect the time and effort required to complete tasks, potentially influencing a child's motivation to engage in physical activities and contributing to unhealthy lifestyle habits.
Physical Functionality and Social/Behavioral Implications
​Movement ABC assessment highlights how movement difficulties impact physical functionality and behavior. Frustration and irritability due to movement challenges may disrupt the home environment, underscoring the need for intervention to address these issues effectively.
Information Provided Following an Assessment
​Following the assessment, the therapist discusses the findings and their impact on the child's functioning at home and school. Upon request, a detailed Movement ABC report is provided, outlining the condition's impact, treatment plan, and recommendations for enhancing daily living.
Treatment Following an Assessment
​Treatment options following a Movement ABC assessment may include participation in gross motor groups, one-on-one therapy sessions, movement games, play therapy, and education on maximizing functionality and spatial awareness.
​In Summary
The Movement ABC assessment evaluates a child's movement abilities in relation to various activities and environments. It considers environmental factors, task difficulty, and individual capabilities, allowing for the formulation of a tailored treatment plan.
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If you would like to schedule a Movement ABC assessment or discuss any concerns, please feel free to contact us.