Training Coaches in Community Agencies to Support Parents of Children with Suspected Autism: Outcomes, Facilitators, and Barriers

Abstract

This study evaluated the fidelity and effectiveness of a parent coach training program for toddlers at risk for autism spectrum disorder and identified factors required for successful training implementation under real-world conditions. Training addressed four tiers of clinical competence and was delivered to early intervention providers across 23 partner agencies in a large Canadian province. Results indicated that mean trainee fidelity scores were within the range reported in previous community-based training studies but there was considerable variability across trainees. Implementation facilitators included agency learning climate, leadership support, and trainee readiness for change. Implementation barriers included time/caseload demands and challenges related to technology learning and infrastructure. Results have implications for parent coach training in community settings.