Preparing practitioners to work with families in early childhood intervention

Abstract

In recent years, early childhood intervention has experienced a paradigm shift from a child to a family-oriented approach in diagnosis and therapy. A specific qualification for early interventionists is urgently needed in this field, as the concepts and curricula are, at best, only in the initial stages, and the degree to which they have been put into practice varies considerably. The changing role of early interventionists working with families is discussed. Further, specification is given of the new demands that the early interventionist is faced with, both personally and in his/her expertise, and of the broadening of competencies. In addition, recommendations are presented for the qualification and the methods of teaching the new personal and professional competences required when working with families in early intervention.