The Spanish version of the Alberta Infant Motor Scale: Validity and reliability analysis

Abstract

Objectives: Validity and reliability of the cross-cultural adaptive translation of the Alberta Infant Motor Scale (AIMS), to monitor gross motor development in infants from 0 to 18 months of age, were evaluated. Methods: A cross-cultural translation was used to generate a Spanish version of the AIMS. Fifty infants at risk or with diagnosis of motor delay, 0–18 months of age, participated in this study. Two independent physical therapists scored infants on the AIMS. Concurrent validity was tested using the AIMS and the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development – III (Bayley – III). Results: Reliability and the internal consistency were high (ICCs ranged from 0.94 to 1.00 and KR-20 ranged from 0.90 to 0.98, respectively). AIMS and Bayley – III scores correlated strongly (r = 0.97). Conclusion: The Spanish version of the AIMS presented excellent validity and reliability. Further studies are suggested in order to assess the AIMS in preterm babies.