INTERPLAY Research Study

The INTERPLAY research study was completed with the goal of supporting implementation of intensive hand therapy for infants and toddlers with cerebral palsy across Canada. 

Hand and arm intensive therapy is important for improving upper limb outcomes for infants and toddlers with cerebral palsy. This play-based therapy is delivered by caregivers who are coached by therapists. However, access to this therapy is very limited for Canadian children with cerebral palsy younger than two years old. This project aimed to first identify reasons that support or stop the delivery of intensive therapy from the viewpoints of caregivers, therapists, and healthcare administrators. Findings then informed the identification and prioritization of strategies to support national implementation. 

In 2025, the research team in focused on the final study phase. If you are interested in contributing, please email our team at INTERPLAY.study@ucalgary.ca