If you have a neurodiverse child, chances are you have sought out various services such as ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapy, speech therapy (ST), occupational therapy (OT), or psychological support. However, you may find yourself asking a common question: "Why doesn't it work?" In today's article, we want to provide you with three important questions to ask yourself right now to gain a deeper understanding of why you may not be seeing the progress you desire. Let's explore these questions together.
Q1: What is Your Goal and How Can it be Measured?
Having a clear goal is crucial in any therapeutic journey. Take a moment to reflect on the specific outcomes you hope to achieve for your child. Is it improved communication skills, increased independence, or decreased problem behaviours? Once you have identified your goal, it is equally important to establish a method for measuring progress. Without measurable goals, it becomes challenging to track and celebrate your child's achievements along the way. By setting specific targets and milestones, you'll have a clearer picture of when progress is being made.
Q2: What Procedures are Being Used?
It's essential to gain a basic understanding of the procedures being implemented in your child's therapy or intervention program. Educate yourself on evidence-based practices and interventions that are aligned with best practices in the field. This knowledge will help you assess whether the approaches being utilized are supported by scientific research and have a track record of success. Additionally, understanding the procedures empowers you to have informed discussions with your child's service providers, enabling you to ask relevant questions and set realistic expectations for progress. Remember, knowledge is power when it comes to advocating for your child's needs.
Q3:Are You Working with Licensed Professionals?
When seeking services for your child, it is crucial to ensure you are working with licensed professionals who possess the necessary qualifications, training, and expertise. Licensed professionals undergo rigorous education and training programs to develop the skills needed to provide effective and evidence-based interventions. Their knowledge extends beyond the surface-level techniques and allows them to adapt and tailor interventions to meet the unique needs of your child. Conversely, unlicensed individuals may lack the knowledge and experience required to deliver the desired outcomes. By verifying the credentials and qualifications of your service providers, you can have confidence in their ability to deliver the support your child deserves.
Take a moment to reflect on these three questions and see if they shed light on the reasons behind the lack of progress you may be experiencing. By addressing these questions and actively seeking answers, you are taking a proactive step towards understanding the barriers to progress and empowering yourself to advocate for your child's needs. Remember, you are an essential partner in your child's journey, and your commitment and dedication will make a significant difference in their development.
Keep pushing forward, stay informed, and never hesitate to reach out to qualified professionals who can guide and support you on this rewarding but sometimes challenging path. Together, we can unlock the potential within your remarkable neurodiverse child and pave the way for a brighter future.
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