Parents' Efforts to Assist Delayed Walking in Children

Abstract

Indicators of child development include the ability to walk at the age of approximately 18 months. If at this stage the child is not able to walk without being held, it can be said that the child has delayed walking. There are several factors involved in delayed walking, including motor, genetic and temperament. Giving stimulation is an effort made by adults in providing the optimal facilities and opportunities to achieve optimal development. The purpose of this study was to determine the efforts of parents in accompanying delayed walking in children. This was qualitative research with a case study approach. The data were collected through semi-structured interviews. Participants were selected using purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using domain analysis and triangulation was carried out. The results were consolidated into 4 themes, namely: 1) non-medical therapy, with 2 sub-themes: a) bringing children to traditional therapy, and b) doing light massage on children’s feet; 2) providing stimulation of walking exercises, with 3 sub-themes: a) stimulation of walking with toys, b) stimulation of walking with exercise, and c) environmental modification; 3) fulfillment of nutrition in supporting motor skills, with 2 sub-themes: a) providing vitamins, and b) providing food with adequate nutrition; and 4) providing rewards. Keywords: arents’ efforts, stimulation, delayed walking