Training Coaches in Community Agencies to Support Parents of Children with Suspected Autism: Outcomes, Facilitators, and Barriers

This study evaluated the fidelity and effectiveness of a parent coach training program for toddlers at risk for autism spectrum disorder and identified factors required for successful training implementation under real-world conditions. Training addressed four tiers of clinical competence and was delivered to early intervention providers across 23 partner agencies in a large Canadian province. Results indicated that mean trainee fidelity scores were within the range reported in previous community-based training studies but there was considerable variability across trainees. Implementation facilitators included agency learning climate, leadership support, and trainee readiness for change. Implementation barriers included time/caseload demands and challenges related to technology learning and infrastructure. Results have implications for parent coach training in community settings.

Automated summary

This study evaluated the fidelity and effectiveness of a parent coach training program for toddlers at risk for autism spectrum disorder, identifying factors for successful training implementation. The study found that mean trainee fidelity scores were within the range reported in previous community-based training studies, with variability across trainees. Implementation facilitators included agency learning climate, leadership support, and trainee readiness for change, while barriers included time/caseload demands and technology learning challenges. The results have implications for parent coach training in community settings.