What is it about?
This study explored how Australian speech-language pathologists (SLPs) involve parents in National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)-funded speech and language therapy for children. An online survey of 72 SLPs examined their practices, barriers, and supports for parent involvement. Most SLPs reported using family-focused approaches, with experienced SLPs more likely to do so. Challenges included factors related to SLPs, parents, and workplaces, while effective communication and rapport-building supported involvement. Overall, the findings suggest SLPs aim to include parents in therapy, highlighting the importance of family-centred practices in NDIS-funded services for children.
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Why is it important?
This study is important as parent involvement in children's speech and language therapy is supportive of their development and generalisation of skills. However funding mechanisms may inadvertently discourage parent involvement, for example if time spent liaising with parents is "non billable".
Perspectives
It was reassuring to see that Australian speech language pathologists in this sample were strong in family centred practices within their NDIS funded services. Concern that NDIS funding and administration mechanisms may discourage parent involvement seemed to be unfounded, at least within this self-selected sample.
Jayne Newbury
University of Canterbury
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Speech-language pathologists’ practices and perceptions of parent involvement in paediatric services funded by the NDIS in Australia, International Journal of Speech-Language Pathology, December 2023, Taylor & Francis,
DOI: 10.1080/17549507.2023.2281222.
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