New reference values must be established for the Alberta Infant Motor Scales for accurate identification of infants at risk for motor developmental delay in Flanders

Background The Alberta Infant Motor Scales (AIMS) is a reliable and valid assessment tool to evaluate the motor performance from birth to independent walking. This study aimed to determine whether the Canadian reference values on the AIMS from 1990–1992 are still useful tor Flemish infants, assessed in 2007–2010. Additionally, the association between motor performance and sleep and play positioning will be determined. Methods A total of 270 Flemish infants between 0 and 18 months, recruited by formal day care services, were assessed with the AIMS by four trained physiotherapists. Information about sleep and play positioning was collected by mean of a questionnaire. Results Flemish infants perform significantly lower on the AIMS compared with the reference values (P