‘Level of Participation of Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Family and Recreational & Self-care Activities’

Abstract

Background: Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental disorder that affects a child’s daily life activities participation. Participation in activities is very important in every children’s life. Through participation children acquires skills and knowledge. But children with ASD have limited participation in activities and they need proper guidance to participate in activities. Parents also faces difficulty about their children participation in activities as they have to maintain the activities of their children. Objective: This study identified the level of participation level of children with ASD in self-care, family and recreational activities and also explore the socio demographic factors of the parents and also children with autism. Methodology: This study was conducted by cross sectional study design quantitative study. The cross sectional study was conducted among 40 participants who were selected from two selected areas of Dhaka city. The participants were selected by using convenience sampling procedure. The data was collected by using Child Engagement in Daily Life Measure with face-to-face interview. The data was analyzed by using SPSS.20 (Statistical Package of Social Science). Result: The level of participation of children with ASD in self-care, family and recreational activities were average according to the Child Engagement in Daily Life Measure. Most children are not participated in self-care consistently and they need help to continue the self-care activities. However, children were more involved in recreational activities with their families. The frequency of participation of family and recreational activities is 57.2%, enjoyment of family and recreational activities is 62% and participation in self-care activities is 54%. Conclusion: This study explored the level of participation of children with ASD in selfcare, family and recreational activities. Child Engagement in Daily Life Measure scale was used to measure the participation level of children with ASD. The findings from this study provides information about the participation level of children with ASD and thus it will be helpful for rehabilitation professionals to plan according to the child’s need. And it will also be helpful for parents to be aware of their children’s participation. Key words: Autism spectrum disorder, participation, self-care activities, recreational activities