Who should be present during in-home sessions?

Having a parent or adult caregiver present during in-home sessions is crucial for several reasons. First, they provide a familiar presence that can help reduce anxiety for the child on the autism spectrum. The parent or caregiver can also reinforce the techniques and strategies being implemented, ensuring consistency between the therapy sessions and the child’s daily life.

Additionally, the presence of an adult caregiver enables effective communication between the technician and the family, allowing for immediate feedback and discussion about the child's progress and any concerns that may arise. This collaboration is essential for tailoring interventions to meet the specific needs of the child.

The involvement of a familiar adult can also support the child's engagement in activities, as they typically respond better when someone they know and trust is present. This engagement can enhance learning and lead to more effective outcomes during the sessions.

In contrast, a teenage babysitter or a young sibling may lack the necessary training or authority to facilitate productive therapy sessions. They may not be equipped to assist in implementing specific behavioral strategies or managing challenging behaviors effectively. Meanwhile, an occupational therapist, although they play an important role in a child's overall therapy plan, may not be present during all in-home sessions and is generally not the primary person responsible for day-to-day interventions in this specific context.