Introduction: This study raises the need to promote family-centered intervention approaches, aimed toward improving the family's quality of life, the empowerment of all its members, and the development of self-determination skills. Method: To this end, we review the studies on intellectual disabilities, self-determination and family-centered approaches from the last 10 years. From this basis, we proceed to describe the experiences of a small group of parents (N = 4), focusing on positive aspects. In addition, we take a theoretical-applied look at the family-centered approach to intervention (FCA). Results: Just as in the literature, the parents in this study consider that living with a disability issue has involved challenges, concerns about their children's future and something of an extra burden, but also personal and family enrichment. Notable key factors for attaining quality of life as a family included: partnership between parents and professionals, identification of family strengths, and parental development of perceived control and of self-determination skills. Some suggestions are described for helping families meet these goals. Discussion and conclusions: Families' lack of competencies for meeting some of their children's needs calls for the implementation of family-centered intervention plans that enhance the self-determination of all family members. (Contains 2 figures and 4 footnotes.)