ERIC Number: EJ1129308
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2017-Feb
Pages: 9
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0271-1214
EISSN: N/A
The Early Intervention Readiness Program (EIRP): A Post-ASD Diagnosis Family Support Program
Tolmie, Rhiannon S.; Bruck, Susan; Kerslake, Rachel
Topics in Early Childhood Special Education, v36 n4 p242-250 Feb 2017
A child's diagnosis with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) can be an extremely stressful time for families. Researchers suggest that the period immediately following ASD diagnosis is a key time for professionals to guide families by providing appropriate information about support options. This article describes a family support program, developed by Autism Spectrum Australia (Aspect). The Early Intervention Readiness Program (EIRP) is delivered during the challenging post-diagnosis period. During program involvement, families are provided with information and management strategies related to ASD-associated behaviors, and support options are identified. The EIRP aims to strengthen family confidence and facilitate a smooth transition into appropriate early intervention services. Preliminary program evaluation outcomes indicate that following program involvement, participants perceive a significant increase in their confidence in their understanding of ASD and capacity to independently make decisions about related supports. Participant post-program evaluations also verify the EIRP to be a useful post-ASD diagnosis support.
Descriptors: Autism, Pervasive Developmental Disorders, Clinical Diagnosis, Early Intervention, Family Programs, Access to Information, Family Involvement, Access to Education, Foreign Countries, Program Evaluation, Pretests Posttests, Surveys, Family Attitudes, Program Effectiveness, Young Children
SAGE Publications and Hammill Institute on Disabilities. 2455 Teller Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320. Tel: 800-818-7243; Tel: 805-499-9774; Fax: 800-583-2665; e-mail: journals@sagepub.com; Web site: http://sagepub.com
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Australia
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A