Abstract Aim:

To assess motor abilities and functioning of institutionalized children and adolescents with cerebral palsy (CP) within a contextual model of development.

Methods:

Eleven institutionalized Brazilian children and adolescents aged 2-19 (14 ± 5) years, 5 males and 6 females, were evaluated through the Gross Motor Function Measure (GMFM-88 and 66) and the Functional Independence Measure (FIM), and classified according to the ICF core set.

Results:

The evaluated individuals have severe impairments as indicated by their GMFM scores and confirmed by their need for full assistance in basic activities of daily living according to the FIM assessment. The difficulties manifested reflected on the ICF body functions and activities and participation domains.

Conclusion:

Most institutionalized children and adolescents with CP had GMFM-66 scores comparable to those indicated in literature. The ICF-based assessment identified environmental barriers that might be considered for improvement in order to facilitate activities and participation.