Adults learn best through experience. Think about it – how often do you search YouTube or Google for how-to tutorials? It’s much easier to complete and master a task once you’ve seen how it’s done. At South Bay, we recognize this, and we infuse this thinking into our Early Intervention services. Going through a new experience – especially when it comes to raising a child with a developmental delay – can be stressful and scary. We understand, and our clinicians are here to help you every step of the way, as it’s a collaborative effort between the clinician and the parent. Below, we offer tips on how parents can ensure they’re actively engaging in intervention strategies, allowing their child to have the best possible beginning.
Engage in affectionate and nurturing interactions.
Holding, singing, rocking or talking to infants are interactions that might seem natural to parents. But, these exchanges are more fundamental to a child’s development than one might know. These connections provide your child with the stimulation his or her growing brain needs. Positive interactions send messages to your baby that he or she is valued. As a result, your child will grow up knowing to treat others in a similar manner.
Think of each intervention session as practice.
Practice makes perfect, and it’s completely normal to run into challenges along the way. Use each session as a way to practice, and don’t beat yourself up if things don’t go as planned. Challenging times help you learn what does and doesn’t work for your child – because every child is unique. Going through certain experiences – and then learning from those experiences – is a critical part of the development process, as it teaches families problem-solving skills, builds self-confidence and engrains coping techniques. Our clinicians are happy to answer all questions, support you in your interactions, demonstrate actions if desired and help you replicate interventions for future success.
Understand the reasoning behind actions.
As a clinician supports you during an intervention, discuss the why behind the action. It’s important to know the reasoning so that you can feel confident every day during your daily routines. This knowledge will help you respond to certain behaviors in a way that is productive and supports positive development.
Know that you aren’t alone when it comes to navigating life with a child. Our clinicians work to help families develop positive approaches. The family’s effort, with the support of our Early Intervention team, will help ensure growth, stability and well-being during a child’s early years. Let us help you and your child have the best possible beginning!
For more information, contact us at 508-521-2200 or click here.