Early Intervention for Children with Autism: Parental Priorities

It has been recognised for some time that early intervention for children with disabilities should not only focus on child outcomes but must also recognise the integral role families play in the development of their child (Bailey et al., 1998). Services that support families have frequently been discussed in terms of their family-centredness, and research has focused on identifying critical dimensions of family-centred practice (Allen & Petr, 1996; Bailey et al., 1998; Begun, 1996; Dunst, Trivette & Deal, 1994; Keen & Knox, 2004; Knox et al., 2000; Murray, 2000; Turnbull & Turnbull, 2001). Fundamental to a family-centred approach is the importance of matching early intervention support with the unique characteristics of each child and family (Bailey et al., 1990). As stated by Dunst et al. (1994), 'the greatest impact on child, parent, and family functioning is most likely to occur when interventions are based upon the needs, aspirations, and desires a family considers important' (p. 9).