Virtual Practitioner Training and Coaching of a Triadic Approach in Early Intervention: A Mixed-Methods Investigation

Abstract

Caregivers are critical partners in early intervention service delivery; therefore, it is essential to ensure that early intervention practitioners (EIPs) have sufficient training in family-centered strategies to assist families with reaching targeted family and child outcomes. The triadic strategies from the Parents Interacting With Infants (PIWI) framework comprise a set of six practitioner strategies that align with family-centered caregiver coaching practices. For this mixed methods study, we used single-case research design to investigate a virtual training and coaching program for EIPs to increase their use of triadic strategies with caregivers during teleintervention sessions. We also conducted interviews to understand the experiences of EIPs and families with triadic strategy use. Results suggest practitioners demonstrated modest increases in strategy implementation, with marked decreases in directive strategy use. Participants described experiences with strategy use as well as factors potentially influencing implementation. Implications for practice and research are discussed.