Documenting Change in Young Multiply Handicapped Children in a Rehabilitation Center 1

Abstract

A system was developed to document changes in young multiply handicapped children attending an inpatient, intensive educational program in a rehabilitation center. Twenty children ranging in age from 18 to 36 months (on admission) served as subjects for this study. The primary source of data was anecdotal records written by the children's teachers. Logs were coded and analyzed for behaviors in eight dimensions (interaction with materials, social interaction, awareness of environment, expressive language, affect, gross motor skills, fine motor skills, and sensory responsiveness). Pre- and postscores were examined. Group data showed that children were generally more responsive and higher functioning at discharge. Relative position within the group generally did not change from pre to post periods. Findings based on the coding and analysis were generally congruent with clinical judgments. Some refinements in the system were suggested and made for further study.

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