National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

Which intervention is MOST appropriate for a 4-year-old child with characteristics of fetal alcohol syndrome?

1. Gait training with a rolling walker

2. Sensory desensitization activities

3. Activities to inhibit spasticity

4. Dynamic balance activities

The correct answer is: Dynamic balance activities

For a 4-year-old child with characteristics of fetal alcohol syndrome, the most appropriate intervention is dynamic balance activities. Children with fetal alcohol syndrome may present with various developmental challenges, including deficits in motor control, coordination, and balance. Engaging in dynamic balance activities can help improve their overall stability and coordination, which are critical for their gross motor development. Dynamic balance activities can include exercises that challenge the child to maintain balance while moving, such as walking along a balance beam, navigating obstacles, or performing specific movements that require both stability and coordination. These types of activities not only enhance physical development but can also improve the child's confidence and engagement in play. The other options may not address the primary challenges faced by a child with fetal alcohol syndrome as effectively. For example, gait training with a rolling walker could be beneficial if the child has significant mobility issues, but it may not specifically target balance and coordination skills necessary for overall development. Sensory desensitization activities are typically aimed at addressing sensory processing issues, which may not be the primary concern in the context of improving balance. Activities to inhibit spasticity might be relevant for children with spasticity, but it is less common in cases of fetal alcohol syndrome compared to issues related to balance and coordination.