Designing a motor skill intervention for preschool children in a low-income rural setting in South Africa: A Delphi study

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: There is a high prevalence of motor skill impairment among pre-school children in rural low socio-economic areas. While therapy input is paramount, resources are limited. This Delphi study aimed to determine what the components would be of a feasible, cost-effective motor skill intervention for pre-school children in a rural, low socio-economic area of South Africa METHOD: A three-round Delphi study was conducted with experts in the field, including occupational therapists, physiotherapists, kinder kineti-cists and teachers. The first round investigated demographic details of participants and agreement of participants on role players, structure and content of an intervention. Subsequent rounds' questions followed up on participants' comments and areas of dissent. Agreement was calculated at 75% or mean >4 RESULTS: Outcomes suggest that a school-based, small-group programme, facilitated by the teaching team, but with clear guidelines, support and advice from therapists should be feasible in a low-income rural context. Inclusivity of intervention groups and aim-formulation proved to be controversial issues that need further investigation CONCLUSION: The results from this study helped develop a guide for motor skill intervention for pre-school children in low socio-economic and rural areas