MOTOR DEVELOPMENT OF INFANTS IN A CHILDREN’S SHELTER INSTITUTION: A LONGITUDINAL STUDY

Abstract

Objective: To assess and monitor the motor development of infants in a childcare institution. Methods: This was a longitudinal study conducted between January 2016 and November 2023 at a childcare institution in Governador Valadares, Minas Gerais. Data related to birth, health conditions, and institutionalization of infants were collected from the institution's records. Motor development was evaluated using the Alberta Infant Motor Scale (AIMS) upon admission and every two months thereafter. Results: A total of 28 infants were evaluated, with 57,14% being female, and a mean age at admission of 13.7±7.39 months. The most common causes of institutionalization included neglect, abandonment, and/or caregivers with alcohol and/or drug use. The majority of institutionalized infants who presented delayed motor development at the initial assessment progressed satisfactorily during the period of institutionalization. Conclusion: The study revealed an improvement in the motor development of sheltered infants, as they acquired age-appropriate motor skills when placed in an environment with adequate resources and stimuli. These findings underscore the importance of an enriched environment in facilitating infant development in institutional settings.