Visual motor integration in children living in childcare institutions in Gauteng

The research examined the relationship between institutionalisation factors and visual motor integration. A quantitative study of 50 children from nine childcare institutions of varying socio-economic circumstances, within the Gauteng Province, was undertaken. The participants came from different race groups, genders and their ages ranged from 6 to 10 years. Interview questionnaires were used to obtain the relevant information on client and environmental factors related to the different institutions that could have influenced visual motor integration. The Beery-Buktenica Developmental Test of Visual Motor Integration, 4th Edition (DTVMI) was used to obtain an objective measure of the participants’ visual motor integration abilities. The analysis of the data revealed statistically significant differences in the mean standard scores related to age, types of play engaged in and the socioeconomic circumstances of the institutions. Other factors that contributed to lower scores included length of institutionalisation, health, coping with academic tasks and the play resources available in the institutions. Key words: Child care institution, Visual motor integration, Play, Socio economic status