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The purpose of this study is to describe the driving experience and emotional responses of young children who experience mobility limitations during initial use of the Explorer Mini, a new pediatric powered mobility device. The current study utilized a descriptive, cross-sectional, and mixed- method approach. Thirty-three young children between 6 and 36 months of age who experience mobility limitations participated in this study and were provided up to two, 15-minute driving sessions with the Explorer Mini. Researchers completed an observation form that included field notes (qualitative data) and answers to yes/no questions to generate percentages of observed behaviors (quantitative data) regarding young children's driving experience and emotional responses while using the Explorer Mini. Thematic analysis from field notes (i.e., qualitative data) revealed two inter-related themes: 1) I can move, 2) I think I like it- don't I? Ninety four percent (i.e., quantitative data) of young children were able to move the Explorer Mini to explore their environment. Young children demonstrated self-initiated mobility with a powered mobility device using the midline joystick. The results support the notion that infants 6–36 months can effectively use the Explorer Mini. The device received Food and Drug Administration 510k clearance in February 2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study aims to address the gap in research and contribute to the body of knowledge on the perspectives assistive technology device users have toward their devices.Method: Mixed methods were used to better understand the impact of mobility assistive technology devices (MATDs) on participation for individuals with disabilities. The Functional Mobility Assessment was administered in conjunction with two qualitative questions developed by the research team allowing participants to expound on the impact of their MATD experience. Participants were recruited online via the National Spinal Cord Injury Association website and in-person at Abilities Expo in Atlanta, Georgia, and the International Seating Symposium in Nashville, Tennessee.Results: Results are consistent with findings from prior research regarding accessibility for individuals with disabilities. Corresponding findings were found in both the quantitative and qualitative data and are categorized into several major themes: environment (indoor and outdoor), surface heights, transportation, dependence, independence, quality of life and participation.Conclusion: Quantitative data from this study indicate that users of MATD are satisfied with the way in which their devices enable maneuvering indoors, while qualitative data suggest otherwise. Implications for healthcare practitioners are described and future recommendations are provided.Implications for RehabilitationHealthcare professionals should advocate for proper mobility assistive technology devices (MATDs) for their patients in order to enable increased independence, safety and efficiency.Healthcare professionals must be cognizant of the impact of the environment and/or environmental barriers when prescribing MATD.Additional areas of interest for future research may include investigating the impact of MATD in association with date of onset of disability, according to diagnoses, or specific to length of time since acquiring the device. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]