The World Health Organization (WHO) has developed a comprehensive Caregiver Skills Training (CST) program aimed at supporting families of children with developmental disorders or delays. The program, designed to be feasible, scalable, and adaptable, is particularly valuable for implementation in low-resource settings by nonspecialists. This blog will explore the key components and benefits of the CST program, encouraging practitioners to integrate these strategies into their practice or pursue further research.
Key Components of the WHO CST Program
The CST program is structured around a family-centered approach and fits within a stepped-care model, integrating into existing health and social services. It is designed to be delivered by nonspecialists, making it cost-effective and accessible. Here are the core elements of the program:
- Group and Individual Sessions: The program includes a combination of group sessions in community centers, health centers, or schools, and individual sessions in caregivers’ homes. This format minimizes implementation costs and promotes peer support among caregivers while tailoring guidance to each family's needs.
- Core and Optional Modules: The CST program comprises nine core modules and three optional modules. Core modules cover topics such as engagement, play and home routines, communication, behavior management, adaptive behavior, and caregiver self-care. Optional modules address specific needs, such as minimally verbal children and comorbid conditions.
- Home Visits: Home visits are critical for setting goals, providing tailored coaching, and building rapport with the family. These visits ensure that the intervention is responsive to each family's unique circumstances.
- Cascade Training and Supervision Model: This model allows for effective and cost-effective implementation by nonspecialist providers, ensuring continuous support and supervision.
Benefits of Implementing the CST Program
The CST program offers numerous benefits for both practitioners and families:
- Improved Child Outcomes: The program targets key domains of child development, such as social communication and adaptive skills, while reducing disruptive and challenging behavior.
- Enhanced Caregiver-Child Relationship: By promoting self-confidence, parenting skills, and psychological well-being, the program strengthens the caregiver-child relationship.
- Community Participation: The program encourages the child's participation and inclusion in daily home and community activities, fostering a supportive environment.
- Cost-Effectiveness: The use of nonspecialist providers and the integration into existing services make the program cost-effective and scalable.
Encouraging Further Research and Implementation
Practitioners are encouraged to explore the CST program further and consider its integration into their practice. The program's evidence-based principles and adaptable framework make it a valuable tool for improving outcomes for children with developmental disorders or delays.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Development of the WHO Caregiver Skills Training Program for Developmental Disorders or Delays
