Preliminary evaluation of a low-intensity parent training program on speech-language stimulation for children with language delay

Aim: The study assessed the outcome of a low-intensity parent training program for improving parent's language input to children with language delay. Method: Nine parents and their children aged between 12 months to 24 months, exhibiting delay in language development, participated in a brief training program over three sessions. Training comprised of inputs on speech-language development, play development and speech-language stimulation strategies, supported by a manual. Effect of the training program on parent's language behaviour was evaluated through observations of parent-child interaction recorded before training and six-weeks and 10-weeks post training. Measures including, different functions served by verbalizations of parents and their nonverbal affective behaviours, were analysed. Results and Discussion: Parents' verbalizations increased significantly from baseline to the two follow-up sessions. Proportion of comments, suggestions and reflections on the child's productions increased with a concurrent decrease in the use of direct commands and questions, from baseline to post training at 10-weeks. Parents reported regular use of the manual during and after the training sessions. Post training, they identified play-based activities and provided opportunities for interactions in daily routines. Changes in the child's communication skills were also reported. Conclusion: A low-intensity training program for parents, supported by a manual focusing on developmentally appropriate play and speech-language stimulation, resulted in increased verbal interaction and changes in language input to children.