Contextual influences of parenting behaviors for children with neurodevelopmental disorders: Results from a Canadian national survey 

This population-based study examined the links between three parenting behaviors (positive interactions, consistency, and ineffective parenting) in families with children with neurodevelopmental disorders ages 4-11. Child age, family functioning, and social support variables were significant predictors of all three parenting behaviors. The child's sex, birth order, and support received from community or social service professionals are important influences. These findings confirm the importance of social supports for quality of parenting and provide direction for future research questions that will address specificity in social support. Published in Disability & Rehabilitation. Authors: RG Arim, RE Garner, JC Brehaut, LM Lach, MJ Mackenzie, PL Rosenbaum, DE Kohen. Abstract.

Developmental coordination disorder: A review and update 

This paper, published in the European Journal of Paediatric Neurology, reviews developmental coordination disorder (DCD): the history of the definition, prevalence, etiology, common co-morbidities, impact and prognosis. As well, current interventions are described, and the results of recent neuroimaging studies are briefly explained. Authors: JG Zwicker, C Missiuna, SR Harris, LA Boyd. Abstract.

Botulinum Toxin-A use in paediatric hypertonia: Canadian practice patterns 

The current practices of Canadian physicians providing Botulinum toxin-A treatments for children with hypertonia are analyzed in this article published in Canadian Journal of Neurological Science. Thirty-nine physicians (78% response rate) utilizing Botulinum toxin-A for paediatrics across Canada completed an electronic survey and provided information on assessment tools, indications (including muscles injected), dosages, incidence of adverse events, localization, and pain management techniques. Physicians reported a good safety profile for Botulinum toxin-A. The results showed that Canadian physicians generally adhere to international best practices to treat paediatric hypertonia.   Knowledge translation opportunities were identified specifically related to the use of individualized goal setting and enhancing localization techniques. Authors: D Fehlings, U Narayanan, J Andersen, R Beauchamp, JW Gorter, A Kawamura, G Kiefer, M Mason, A McCormick, R Mesterman, L Switzer, J Watt. Abstract.

Increasing the use of group interventions in a pediatric rehabilitation program: Perceptions of administrators, therapists, and parents 

The objective of this study was to explore the perceptions related to increased utilization of group interventions as a part of the service reorganization within a pediatric rehabilitation program. The methods included individual interviews and focus groups. The authors concluded that groups appear to be a promising method of service delivery, but organizational-related issues should be considered. Published in Physical & Occupational Therapy in Pediatrics. Authors: C Camden, S Tetreault, B Swaine. Abstract.

Mental health difficulties in children with developmental coordination disorder 

Investigators in this study published in Pediatrics, explored the associations between developmental coordination disorder (DCD) defined at age 7 years and mental health difficulties at age 9 to 10 years. Children with DCD had increased odds of self-reported depression, and parent-reported mental health difficulties. The odds of mental health difficulties significantly decreased after accounting for verbal IQ, social communication, bullying, and self-esteem. The authors recommend prevention and treatment of mental health difficulties should be a key element of intervention for children with DCD. Authors: R Lingam, MJ Jongmans, M Ellis, LP Hunt, J Golding, A Emond. Abstract.