1. Parents and Families Chapter 4
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2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

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

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

7. 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

8. 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

9. 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