Remote follow-up to speech-language intervention for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD): Parents' feedback regarding structured activities

Abstract

Purpose: This paper aims to present the first descriptions of experiences of parents and caretakers of children with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) enrolled as mediators in a structured program of speech-language intervention with remote follow-up. Methods: Research with focus on speech-language intervention for children with ASD was carried out with remote follow-up. Forty parents were instructed to perform daily activities focused on communication and interaction with their children, at home, for a period of six weeks. Parents and caretakers were questioned about the experience and by means of a structured questionnaire. Results: Only 40% of the parents/caretakers conducted the activities proposed every day. Difficulties were reported by 60% of the parents/caretakers. Behavioral problems were also reported as reasons for the difficulties to conduct the activities proposed. Conclusion: the importance of parents who provide detailed information about the child's development, discuss doubts and exchange experiences for the development of intervention programs that include families.