Parents and Families Chapter 4 This multimedia product and its contents are protected under copyright law. The following are prohibited by law: any public performance or display, including transmission of any image over a network; preparation of any derivative work, including the extraction, in whole or in part, of any images; any rental, lease, or lending of the program. Copyright © Pearson Allyn & Bacon 2009 1

Topics Professionals’ changing views of parents and families The effects of a child with a disability on the family Family involvement in treatment and education 2

Professionals’ Changing Views of Parents Recognize that families are crucial to successful outcomes Seek special insights from parents Be aware of laws stipulating involvement of parents and families (IFSP) 3

The Effects of a Child with a Disability on the Family Parental reactions A Stage Theory approach The role of guilt Dealing with the public Dealing with the child’s feelings Parental adjustment Parental reaction to stress Changing views of parental adjustment 5

The Effects of a Child With a Disability on the Family (cont’d) Sibling reactions Less information available Reactions may vary by age and gender Siblings more likely to have some difficulties in adjustment Sibshops 6

Family Involvement in Treatment and Education Family systems theory Family characteristics Family interaction Cohesion Adaptability Family functions Family life cycle Guardianship Transitions 8

Family Involvement in Treatment and Education (cont’d) Communication between parents and professionals Social support for families Ethnicity and social support Parental support groups Internet resources Parent centers 9

Family Involvement in Treatment and Education (cont’d) Positive behavioral intervention and support for challenging behaviors Positive behavioral and intervention supports (PBIS) Family activity settings

Family Involvement in Treatment and Education (cont’d) Communication between parents and professionals Parent-teacher conferences Home-note programs Traveling notebook Parent advocacy Advocacy is action that results in benefit to one or more persons. 10