Purpose: To explore parents’ views of the activities and participation of children with
cerebral palsy (CP) with a range of communicative abilities and the factors (personal and
environmental) that influenced these. Methods: Thirteen parents of children with CP aged 4—9
years participated in semi—structured individual interviews. Interviews were recorded,
transcribed and analysed thematically. Identified codes and themes were mapped to the
domains of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health — Children and
Youth Version (ICF-CY). Results: Parents’ responses reflected all ICF-CY domains comprising
activity, participation and environmental factors. Codes were primarily mapped to the domains
learning and applying knowledge, communication, mobility and interpersonal interactions and
relationships. Key barriers identified included aspects of parents’ own interactions with their
child (e.g. not offering choices), unfamiliar people and settings, negative attitudes of others and
children’s frustration. Facilitators included support received from the child’s family and school,
being amongst children, having a familiar routine and the child’s positive disposition.
Conclusions: Despite the barriers experienced, children participated in a range of activities.
Parents placed importance on communication and its influence on children’s independence,
behaviour and relationships. Barriers and facilitators identified highlight aspects of the
environment that could be modified through intervention to enhance communication and
participation.