The COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated innovative approaches to therapy and support services, particularly for families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). A recent feasibility study in Iran titled "Using Hybrid Telepractice for Supporting Parents of Children with ASD during the COVID-19 Lockdown: A Feasibility Study in Iran" provides valuable insights for practitioners aiming to enhance their telepractice skills.
During the three-month closure of clinics and day centers in Iran, parents of children with ASD became solely responsible for their care and education. The study involved staff from 30 daycare centers who volunteered to provide online support and training for 336 caregivers. The hybrid telepractice model combined synchronous video sessions and asynchronous written and visual materials to coach parents on their children's learning goals.
The study's outcomes indicated that telepractice is a feasible approach for providing services to family caregivers and children with ASD, even in less affluent countries. Key findings included:
- High levels of parental satisfaction and low dropout rates, suggesting that parents found the telepractice sessions useful.
- Factors contributing to positive attitudes included the provision of accurate personalized information and structured teaching methods.
- Parents appreciated the opportunity to be active agents in their child's education, with ongoing guidance from professionals.
For practitioners looking to implement these findings, consider the following steps:
- Develop hybrid telepractice models that combine real-time video interactions with asynchronous materials.
- Provide structured training and ongoing support for parents to boost their confidence and effectiveness in managing their child's ASD at home.
- Ensure that telepractice services are accessible and user-friendly, leveraging widely available technology like smartphones and free apps.
Additionally, further research is needed to compare telepractice to traditional face-to-face interventions and to explore its long-term impact and cost-effectiveness. Practitioners should also advocate for telepractice as a valuable adjunct to in-person services, particularly in remote or underserved areas.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Using Hybrid Telepractice for Supporting Parents of Children with ASD during the COVID-19 Lockdown: A Feasibility Study in Iran.
