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The Six F-Words for Child Development

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Getting the right wheelchair, seating, and mobility support for children involves the whole family and a team of professionals. The "F-Words" framework is a research-based approach for clinicians who support the health and development of children with disabilities. Dr. Rosenbaum and Dr. Gorter developed the "F-Words" based on the World Health Organization's International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) framework.1 Nearly two decades of research as part of the CanChild organization underpins their work.2 Tailored planning and intervention are at the heart of the "F-Words." You can learn more about Sunrise Medical's Zippie range of pediatric manual and power wheelchairs, designed for growing kids on-the-go, here on our website.

1: Functioning

Illustration of a girl eating

I might do things differently, but I CAN do them. How I do them is not important. Please let me try!

2: Family

Illustration of a family

My family knows me best and I trust them. Listen to them. Talk to them. Hear them. Respect them.

3: Fitness

Illustration of a girl exercising with her dog

Everyone needs to stay fit and healthy, both physically and mentally. Help me find ways to keep fit.

4: Friends

Illustration of a girl with her friends

Having friends is important. Please give me opportunities to make friends.

5: Fun

Illustration of a boy playing with toys

Life is about having fun. Please help me do activities that I find the most fun.

6: Future

Illustration of five people's hands together

I am growing up every day, so please find ways to me to participate and be included in my community.


References

  1. Rosenbaum P, Gorter JW. The 'F-words' in childhood disability: I sweat this is how we should think!. Child: care, health and development. 2012 Jul;38(4):457-63. [Cited 04 Nov 2022]. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2214.2011.01338.x
  2. CanChild. Welcome to the F-Words knowledge hub [Internet]. Hamilton, Canada: McMaster University; 2022 [Cited 04 Nov 2022]. Available from: https://www.canchild.ca/en/research-in-practice/f-words-in-childhood-disability

Published: 1/9/2023


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