In a world where access to quality early intervention services can be limited by geographical, financial, and time constraints, telepractice has emerged as a promising solution. A recent study titled "Parent perceptions of a group telepractice communication intervention for autism" provides valuable insights into how telepractice can be effectively utilized to deliver the Hanen More Than Words (HMTW) program. This blog aims to help practitioners improve their skills by implementing the outcomes of this research or by encouraging them to do further research.
Key Findings from the Research
The study involved 11 parents of preschool children with autism who participated in a telepractice-delivered group training program. The findings were overwhelmingly positive:
- High Satisfaction: Parents reported high levels of satisfaction with the telepractice delivery of HMTW.
- Interactive Learning: Interactive activities, video coaching, and group participation were identified as key supports to learning.
- Positive Outcomes: Parents perceived improvements in their children's communication, responsiveness, interaction, and play.
- Increased Confidence: Parents reported increased confidence in implementing strategies and understanding their children's needs.
Implications for Practitioners
Based on these findings, practitioners can enhance their service delivery by incorporating the following elements:
- Interactive Components: Incorporate interactive activities and video coaching to facilitate learning and strategy implementation.
- Group Support: Utilize group sessions to provide peer support and shared learning experiences.
- Personalization: Offer individualized feedback and coaching to address specific parent and child needs.
- Technological Proficiency: Ensure that both practitioners and parents are comfortable with the technology used for telepractice.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study provides promising results, it also highlights the need for further research to understand the long-term impact of telepractice interventions. Practitioners are encouraged to engage in or support ongoing research to explore:
- The long-term effectiveness of telepractice interventions.
- Cost-effectiveness compared to traditional face-to-face interventions.
- The role of social support in group interventions.
- Standardized measures to assess parent perceptions and engagement.
By continuing to develop, expand, and evaluate telepractice services, we can increase efficiencies and choices for families and providers, ultimately improving outcomes for children with autism.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Parent perceptions of a group telepractice communication intervention for autism.
