As speech-language pathologists (S-LPs), we strive to make data-driven decisions to improve outcomes for children with communication disorders. Understanding parents' perspectives on their child's functional communication and the child-S-LP relationship is crucial for delivering family-centered services. This blog delves into a study that explored these perspectives, providing insights into how intervention impacts children's communication and the therapeutic relationship.
Introduction
The shift towards family-centered practice in pediatric rehabilitation emphasizes the importance of involving parents in their child's therapeutic process. Parents' insights can significantly enhance the effectiveness of intervention by ensuring it aligns with the child's and family's needs. This approach is supported by frameworks like the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health - Children and Youth (ICF-CY), which considers environmental factors and participation in assessing outcomes.
The Study
This study aimed to explore parents' perspectives on two key aspects: (a) the relationship between the child and the S-LP (an environmental factor) and (b) changes in children's functional communication (activities and participation) following speech-language intervention. Sixty-seven parents of preschoolers with communication disorders participated, providing valuable data through structured interviews and rating scales.
Methodology
Parents were interviewed before and after their children received speech-language intervention. The intervention included individual and group sessions focusing on traditional speech and language goals. Parents rated the child-S-LP relationship and described their child's functional communication using validated measures like the Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scales-II (VABS-II) and the Focus on the Outcomes of Communication Under Six (FOCUS).
Findings
The study revealed significant improvements in children's functional communication post-intervention, as reported by parents. These gains were noted in areas such as storytelling, participating in group activities, and engaging in conversations and play. Additionally, most parents (94%) rated the child-S-LP relationship positively, highlighting the importance of rapport and professional competence in therapeutic success.
Implications for Practice
The findings underscore the broad impact of impairment-based interventions on children's functional communication. S-LPs should consider these broader outcomes when designing and evaluating intervention programs. Moreover, the positive feedback on the child-S-LP relationship suggests that building strong, supportive connections with children is vital for effective therapy.
Conclusion
This study emphasizes the value of incorporating parents' perspectives into speech-language pathology practice. By understanding and addressing the needs and experiences of both children and their families, S-LPs can enhance the effectiveness of their interventions, ultimately leading to better communication outcomes for children.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Canadian Journal of Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology / Revue canadienne d'orthophonie et d'audiologie
