Randomised Controlled Trial of a Therapeutic Playgroup for Children with Developmental Delays

Jodie Armstrong , Sonya Girdler, Emma Davidson, Joanne Mizen, Natasha Bear, John Wray, Catherine Elliott

• PMID: 32623539
• DOI: 10.1007/s10803-020-04580-7

Abstract

A single-blind randomised control trial investigated the effectiveness of the Learn, Engage and Play (LEaP) playgroup. Seventy-one children with developmental delay were randomly allocated to an 8-week LEaP playgroup or control group and followed up at 12 and 28 weeks. 

On the primary outcome measure, LEaP demonstrated significant within group changes at 28 weeks (parenting distress p = 0.018) but no between group changes. 

On secondary outcome measures, at 12 weeks LEaP produced significantly better outcomes than control in goal achievement (performance p = 0.022; function p = 0.008) and family-support (p = 0.024), with LEaP continuing to demonstrate significantly better goal achievement (child performance p = 0.042; function p = 0.012) at 28 weeks. 

Findings indicate LEaP may assist in improving family-support and goal achievement outcomes for children with developmental delays.

Keywords: Developmental delay; Early intervention; Randomised control trial; Therapeutic playgroups.