Ep. 81 - Evidence-based Parenting: Navigating Developmental Interventions
Jun 29, 2023Dr. Gina Green joins us to discuss the importance of using scientifically supported interventions when helping children with developmental delays. As parents, we all want the best for our children and will do anything to help them overcome any obstacles they may face. However, in doing so, it's essential to ensure that we're using interventions that are backed by scientific evidence.
There are many theories, treatments, and programs out there that have not been properly evaluated, and some of which have been claimed to be effective in fully curing conditions such as autism. This can be overwhelming and confusing for parents who are already struggling to figure out what's best for their child. It's important to be aware of the difference between scientifically supported interventions and those that are not.
Dr. Green emphasizes the importance of evidence-based interventions and encourages parents to be critical consumers of information. Parents need to understand that not all interventions are created equal, and some may not have any scientific support. Therefore, it's important to know what works and what doesn't.
Navigating the overwhelming amount of parenting information online can be challenging. Still, Dr. Green suggests that parents focus on key things that are supported by science. For example, early intervention is essential, and research has shown that the earlier we can identify and intervene with developmental delays, the better the outcome for the child. Evidence-based interventions, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), can be highly effective in helping children with autism develop skills and improve their behavior.
Dr. Green also suggests that parents seek out reputable sources of information, such as government websites and professional organizations like the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) and the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD). These organizations have extensive resources available to parents, including information on evidence-based interventions and access to professionals who can help.
It's crucial for parents to be aware of the potential risks associated with untested interventions. For example, some treatments may be harmful, and others may waste valuable time and resources that could be spent on evidence-based interventions that are more likely to be effective. This is why it's important to rely on scientific evidence when making decisions about interventions for your child.
Parents should prioritize using scientifically supported interventions when helping children with developmental delays. This will help ensure that their child receives the most effective treatments available and improves their chances of success. By being critical consumers of information and seeking out reputable sources, parents can navigate the overwhelming amount of parenting information online and make informed decisions about their child's care.
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