ABSTRACT
This chapter describes issues related to motor and movement disorders in children and children with chronic health issues. Motor development occurs in predictive stages. During the preschool and early primary years, all areas of motor development become refined and sophisticated, and children learn to perform many adaptive tasks, such as dressing, grooming, and bathing independently. Motor disorders include problems with tone, movement, and posture, as well as sensory processing disorder and oral motor issues. Diagnosis of motor problems is done by health professionals. Strategies for working with children with motor problems are designed through collaboration with parents and the child’s therapists to incorporate the use of assistive technologies, appropriate positioning and moving the child safely, and supporting the child to learn adaptive skills in their correct sequences. In addition, appropriate sensory processing activities should be designed in consultation with an occupational therapist trained in sensory-based therapy. Children with chronic illnesses and degenerative diseases could be educated in inclusive and general education classrooms through the collaboration of educators, family members, and medical professionals. Treatment and education of children with chronic health impairments require observation of safety health protocols along with universal health precautions and a familiarity with the medical and emotional needs of these children to help and encourage them to participate in all aspects of school and community lives.
