Involving Parents and Ensuring Confidence

Who is the Parent? It is important to know the parent, as they vary greatly in their Knowledge Resources Interest Support Personal style

Head, Hands, Heart In order to improve parental involvement, it is important to address three areas: Heads, Hands, and Heart

Head Parents must be educated constantly regarding what the team is doing and why. Education begins with the initial workshop. Parents are given information on ABA theories and techniques. Psychologist and senior therapist remain in constant contact with the family and begin every session with an “update” on the child’s progress and any new programs or techniques that are being implemented. The family is required to participate in team meetings and progress reviews. The family is encouraged to share there views, define goals, and suggest reinforcers or behavioral strategies

Hands It is generally not enough for parents to know the what and why of ABA therapy, they also must be aware of the “how”—the “hands-on” techniques. Parents are encouraged to sit in on as many sessions as possible, and/or to regularly video sessions. Parents are given the opportunity to practice techniques directly, but in structured DDT sessions and in natural environments. Parents are frequently asked to assist with data collection (baseline and ongoing).

Heart Even if parents are aware of the why and how of ABA, and even if they understand the importance of participation, there are often barriers to them doing so. “I am afraid I will do the wrong thing.” “I am overwhelmed and this is my only time to relax away from my child.” “I am afraid the team members will judge my parenting.”

“I’m afraid that team members will judge my parenting.” Provide written explanation of boundaries and confidentiality to parents and team members Maintain strict confidentiality and respect for families – never speak of a family in another home Make sure all team members are aware of procedures for addressing concerns. Concerns should be spoken of with the senior therapist and/or psychologist outside of the home. Line staff NEVER speak of the family to one another.

“I’m overwhelmed, and this is the only time I have to not be focused on my child” Work ABA techniques into natural settings and encourage parent to record data or allow a therapist to do so. Create clear, consistent boundaries and defined therapist roles. Encourage participation of all adult family members, and even siblings in some cases. Work with family to address possibly stressful behaviors at home and in the community

“I am afraid that I will do the wrong thing” Assure parent that everybody makes mistakes, including seasoned professionals. That’s why it is so important to work as a team Allow parents to play the role of the therapist. If the parent is comfortable, videotape some parent-run sessions. Encourage parents to participate in the child- specific training of every therapist who joins the team

Additional Strategies for Assuring Confidence All family members have direct access to the psychologist and senior therapist Seniors are typically in the home at least two times per week and are available by telephone. Family members meet the senior staff and psychologist prior to the beginning of therapy. The qualifications of both psychologist and senior are shared with the family. The family may request a different senior if they do not feel it is a good fit. Progress reviews occur monthly and involve conversation with the parent and direct work with the child. The psychologist often demonstrates hands-on techniques to the family and team.