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Description

Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often require specialized support to navigate daily activities, yet respite and Community Living Support (CLS) workers frequently lack adequate training to address the sensory and behavioral challenges these children face. This project aimed to address these gaps by developing a comprehensive training manual grounded in evidence-based practices and occupational therapy (OT) principles, including the Person-Environment-Occupation (PEO) Model and Sensory Integration (SI) Theory. Surveys and interviews with families, respite workers, and CLS workers identified critical training needs, such as understanding sensory processing, managing challenging behaviors, and effective communication strategies. The manual includes practical modules, embedded videos, printable resources, and knowledge checks to enhance caregiver skills. Piloted through Mimi’s Mission, feedback from participants was integrated to refine the content. The resulting 79-page training manual equips caregivers to provide consistent, high-quality care, reducing the burden on families and improving the occupational performance outcomes of children with ASD. This project highlights the role of occupational therapists in fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and empowering non-professional caregivers, thereby extending their impact beyond direct client care.

Publication Date

2024

Keywords

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Respite care, Community Living Support (CLS), Sensory Integration, Person-Environment-Occupation (PEO) Model, Behavior management, Occupational Therapy, Caregiver training, Family collaboration, Evidence-based practice

Medical Subject Headings

Autism Spectrum Disorder

Disciplines

Occupational Therapy

Empowering Caregivers: A Training Manual for Supporting Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

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