Family involvement

Family involvement is so important when developing an individualized plan for a child.  Professionals should view family members as an integral part of the team.  Family members can provide valuable information about the child, communicate unique needs of the family, and offer opinions about goals for the child. 

Family members have spent the most time with the child.  They are able to give an accurate view of the child’s strengths and needs at home.  They can provide background information about the child and family.  They are also able to provide information about the child’s personality and learning style.  They are able to provide insight into activities or ideas that have worked or not worked in the past.  Family members can inform professionals about medical information provided by the child’s pediatrician and specialists. 

Family members are also able to communicate unique needs of the family.  According to Cook, Klein, Tessier (2008), “The needs of the child and of the parents or siblings are viewed within the context of the entire family as it functions within the larger societal/ ecological system” (p. 44).   Family members deal with having a child with special needs in different ways. Professionals can base services on specific needs of each family when these needs are communicated.  Some families may be worried about finances and worry about being able to work while others may be more concerned with learning about physical therapy resources.  Each family and situation is unique. 

Parent opinions need to be valued when creating an individualized plan for the child.  Family members should feel as if they are part of a team.  Professionals should work to develop a positive relationship with family members.  They can then communicate and model appropriate techniques for teaching skills and behavior management.  Parents can also offer methods that they have used.  Parents will be more likely to be involved throughout the process if they feel valued. 

Family involvement is crucial to developing an accurate view of the child.  The needs of the child will be best served when family members and professionals work together.  Professionals should encourage family involvement throughout the process of creating and implementing an individualized plan for the child.

Reference:

Cook, Ruth E., Klein M. Diane, & Tessier, Annette. (2008). Adapting Early Childhood Curricula for Children with Special Needs (7th Edition). Columbus, OH: Pearson Prentice Hall.