Professor Dr. Francine Ferland

Biography

Francine Ferland is a leading expert in pediatric occupational therapy and an emeritus professor at the University of Montreal. She is the author of several books focusing on children and play as therapeutic instruments. Ferland's research interests include the significance of play in child development, particularly how it aids children in flourishing. Her expertise spans across various areas including rehabilitation for preschool-aged children, play activities, and prevention methods. She applies both ethnographic and theoretical/documentary methodologies in her studies, with specific attention to pathologies such as paralysis, motor disorders, developmental delays, and intellectual disabilities. Ferland has supervised numerous graduate theses exploring the cognitive development and play behaviors of children, with a focus on those with physical disabilities. Her work significantly contributes to the understanding of how children interact with their environment through play and its impact on their rehabilitation and emotional well-being.

Research Interests

Experience