Supporting parents of neurodivergent children: a new parenting programme pilot

Supporting parents of neurodivergent children: a new parenting programme pilot

A pilot commissioned by the NES Parenting Team offers additional support for parents of neurodivergent children. The programme is in response to requests from practitioners.

The Incredible Years Autism Spectrum and Language Delays Parent Programme® is a group-based course for parents of young children aged two to five years who:

• have a diagnosis of autism
• are awaiting an autism assessment
• have a language delay

Two trained facilitators run the course over 14-16 weekly sessions, each lasting two hours. The evidence-based programme is guided by cognitive social learning theory, child development and building relationships.

The group helps parents to build positive, nurturing relationships with their children. These relationships support children’s social and emotional development, help them manage their emotions and encourage parents to understand behaviour through a neurodiversity-informed lens.

As part of the pilot, 15 practitioners from six Community Planning Partnerships across Scotland were trained to deliver the programme in their area. These practitioners mainly work in local authorities and third sector organisations. Their roles include:

• family support
• additional support needs
• parenting and family learning
• family nurture support

The practitioners trained were experienced Incredible Years® practitioners and have experience in supporting families with autistic children.

So far, six groups have been delivered to 48 families, with a further three groups currently running. The results of the pilot have been positive and show parents feel more confident in their parenting abilities.

Parents gave encouraging feedback, saying:

“The content of the programme is insightful and a real support to parents looking for a bit of help.”

Find out more about the work of the Parenting Team on the NES website or email psychology@nes.scot.nhs.uk.

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