Adapted Dance Improves Motor Abilities and Participation in Children With Down Syndrome: A Pilot Study.

PURPOSE: This pilot study measured effects of an adapted dance program on motor abilities and participation in children with Down syndrome (DS) and explored caregivers' qualitative feedback regarding its benefits. METHODS: Children with DS participated in 20 weekly 1-hour adapted dance sessions. The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) and Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM) Dimensions D and E were administered before and after the program. Caregivers completed a survey at the last session. RESULTS: Six children completed pre- and postassessments. Significant improvements were noted in GMFM-88 measures. Caregivers of 5 participants reported improved scores on the COPM that were not significant. Caregivers reported physical, cognitive, and emotional improvements. CONCLUSIONS: This study supports use of an adapted dance program to improve motor abilities and participation in children with DS. VIDEO ABSTRACT: For more insights from the authors, access Supplemental Digital Content 1, available at: http://links.lww.com/PPT/A231.