Recruitment, use, and satisfaction with a web platform supporting families of children with suspected or diagnosed developmental coordination disorder: a randomized feasibility trial

ABSTRACT

Objectives. To determine the feasibility of recruiting families of children with suspected or diagnosed developmental coordination disorder (sdDCD) and explore their satisfaction with a web-based intervention

Design. A feasibility randomized trial was conducted. Participants were the parents of 5–12-year-old children with sdDCD. The intervention group had access to online resources, group and private forums, and videoconferencing with a therapist. Main outcomes were recruitement and retention rates. Satisfaction was documented through a post-intervention survey and interview.

Results. The recruitment rate was seven participants per month (n = 28 participants) and retention rate was 68%. Satisfaction was moderate. No differences in use and satisfaction were observed between groups. Participants formulated recommendations for improving the intervention, including targeting families earlier in the diagnosis process, and pre-scheduling meetings with therapists.

Conclusions. This study demonstrated the feasibility of future trials, and highlighted avenues for improvement. Parent involvement during the development of the intervention is discussed at length.

Abbreviations: DCD: Developmental Coordination Disorder; sdDCD: suspected or diagnosed Developmental Coordination Disorder; RCT: randomized-controled trial

KEYWORDS:

• Developmental disabilities
• internet
• motor delay
• service delivery
• web-based services

Acknowledgments

This study was funded by the Québec Research Rehabilitation Network (REPAR; $20 000; 2015-2016) and Chantal Camden University of Sherbrooke start-up funds ($5000). This material has not yet been presented at any conference.

Conflicts of interest

The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by the University of Sherbrooke [Chantal Camden start-up funds ($5000)]; Québec Research Rehabilitation Network (REPAR; $20 000; 2015–2016) [Non applicable].