Measuring Early Problem-Solving in Young Children with Motor Delays: A Validation Study

Aim: There is a lack of evidence-based tools for measuring problem-solving in young children with motor delays. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the construct validity and responsiveness of the Assessment of Problem-Solving in Play. Methods: 125 young children (10.72, SD 2.62 months) with mild, moderate, and severe motor delays were assessed with the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition Cognitive Scale and the Assessment of Problem-Solving in Play up to 4 times over 12months. The baseline and change over time assessment scores were compared. Results: The Assessment of Problem-Solving in Play was strongly, positively correlated with the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition Cognitive Scale raw scores at baseline (r=0.83, p<0.001) and for changes in scores across time (r=0.64, p<0.001). On average, participants demonstrated positive change in problem-solving scores across time. Participants with severe motor delay scored lower at baseline and changed less as compared to other participants. Conclusions: Results provide evidence for the construct validity and responsiveness of the Assessment of Problem-Solving in Play scores in quantifying problem-solving in young children with motor delays 7-27 months of age. [This is the online version of an article published in "Physical & Occupational Therapy In Pediatrics."]