‘Every picture tells a story’: Interviews with children with cerebral palsy about adapted cycling

Abstract

Children with Cerebral Palsy have a variety of communication styles, verbal and non verbal, augmented by aids, signs, symbols and gestures. Twenty five children with Cerebral Palsy (2-17 years) were interviewed about their experiences of adapted cycling. The objective was to analyse their response to their experiences of adapted cycling by including the use of pictures and photographs. This method was developed from an understanding of Mosaic methods. Pictures of cycling in different environments were displayed for the child to see. The interview questions were phrased in a closed way to enable a simple yes/ no response. These could be indicated by eye pointing or hand gesture as well as their usual form of communication. Pictures of happy and sad faces were also used to ask the child to describe how cycling made them feel. Some children had photographs of themselves cycling in the diary they were keeping, which were also used. The two researchers carrying out the interviews were confident to deal with alternate forms of communication, but reflected that it was hard not to lead the interview. The interview data was transcribed then sent back to the participants and their parents for verification. The interviews were analysed using a template approach by highlighting pertinent quotes. The emerging themes related to the benefits to the children in terms of learning new skills, social participation and the impact on their wider family and friends. Adapted cycling has given them an opportunity to enjoy a physical activity that has health benefits