AIMS: To determine the effects of group-task-oriented training (group-TOT) on gross and fine motor function, activities of daily living (ADL) and social function of children with spastic cerebral palsy (CP). METHODS: Eighteen children with spastic CP (4 to 7.5 years, gross motor function classification system level I to III) were randomly assigned to the group-TOT (9 children received group-TOT for 1 hour, twice a week for 8 weeks) or the comparison group (9 children received individualized traditional physical and occupational therapy). The Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM)-88, the Bruininks-Oseretsky Test of Motor Proficiency 2nd edition (BOT-2), and the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI) were administered before and after the intervention, and in the group-TOT, 16 weeks after the intervention. RESULTS: Children in the group-TOT showed significant improvements in the GMFM-88 standing and walking/running/jumping subscales, the BOT-2 manual dexterity subscale, and the PEDI social function subscale (p < 0.05); changes were maintained 16 weeks after the intervention ended. In contrast, the comparison group improved in only the BOT-2 fine motor integration subscale (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The findings provide evidence of effectiveness of group-TOT in improving gross and fine motor function, and social function in children with CP.
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