A new approach to parental involvement in language intervention programmes

Abstract

The approach used was based on the concept of a videocourse. This consisted of 5 videotape programs illustrating ways whereby parents can help their child''s early language development, a handbook which summarized main points and a series of specific activities which parents were expected to carry out at home after viewing each program. Mothers and fathers (33) took the course and their reactions were favorable. The course brought about significant changes in the way they talked to their children and marked improvements in most of the children''s language usage. These were maintained some 4 mo. after the course ended. Videocourses are easily disseminated to other services and seem to be a feasible way whereby parents can have the opportunity to get specific and detailed information to aid their mentally handicapped child''s language development.