Functionality, school participation and quality of life of schoolchildren with cerebral palsy

Abstract Introduction: The quality of life (QoL) of schoolchildren with cerebral palsy (CP) should be evaluated considering the functional variability of the child with CP with an extended view on functionality in the school context and the determinants of QoL. Objective: to evaluate the school participation and the QoL of schoolchildren with CP in Recife's municipal public network, as well as to analyze the influence of GMFCS levels and motor performance on these variables in the study population. Method: This is an exploratory observational study whose evaluation model was structured based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (CIF). Children with CP were classified in the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) and evaluated according to Gross Motor Function Measure-88 (GMFM-88). The School Function Assessment (SFA) and the Quality of Life Questionnaire for Cerebral Palsy (CPQOL-Caregiver) were answered by teachers and mothers, respectively. Results: In the study population, the higher the GMFCS level, the lower the participation and the lower the independence in school activities, aspects that add to the QoL construct, mainly with less functionality, less emotional well-being and self-esteem, and lower family health. Conclusion: GMFCS levels and motor performance of schoolchildren with CP can affect school participation and QoL, and it is important to consider each child's individual and contextual factors. These results can help the development of functional, care, inclusion and pedagogical strategies for students with CP.