Mini‑AHA Assessment
(Mini Assisting Hand Assessment)
Mini‑AHA Assessment for Infants with Cerebral Palsy
Specialised assessment of how infants use both hands together during play, supporting clear understanding of strengths and guiding intervention planning.
What is the Mini‑AHA
The Mini‑Assisting Hand Assessment (Mini‑AHA) is a standardised assessment used to evaluate how infants with unilateral neurological conditions use their affected hand during play.
The assessment focuses on how the two hands work together in everyday activities, providing meaningful insight into functional performance rather than isolated movement.
Results support informed clinical decision‑making and help guide goal‑directed intervention.
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Infants with suspected or confirmed cerebral palsy
Infants with unilateral upper limb involvement
Children where understanding functional hand use will guide intervention
Families seeking clearer direction for therapy
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The Mini‑AHA is completed through a structured, play‑based session using age‑appropriate toys.
During the assessment:
Your child will participate in play activities designed to encourage natural hand use
The session is video recorded for scoring (required for standardisation)
The assessment is completed in a relaxed, child‑friendly environment
Following the session:
The assessment is scored and interpreted
A summary of findings is provided
Recommendations are discussed in relation to therapy planning
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Clear understanding of how your child uses both hands together
Insight into strengths and areas for development
Objective measurement to support therapy planning
Baseline data to track progress over time
Guidance for goal‑directed, evidence‑based intervention
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Assessments are conducted in Port Macquarie (NSW) in a clinic-based setting.
This allows for a consistent, structured environment that supports accurate assessment and reliable results.
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Assessment is conducted within a goal‑directed, family‑centred framework.
Findings are used to support clear, practical decision‑making — helping families and clinicians focus on the right intervention at the right time.
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Please contact CJOT to discuss assessment options and fees.