A Needs Assessment for the Development of a Project: Increasing Parental Involvement in Occupational Therapy Intervention in Special Education

Background: Studies show that family involvement is essential for successful occupational therapy treatment in children. Despite its importance, parental involvement in treatment in special education settings remains low. Purpose of needs assessment: To characterize the relationship between occupational therapists and parents of children in Ministry of Education special education settings. Method: The needs assessment included a literature review, consultation with the senior occupational therapy counselor of Ministry of Education, online surveys for occupational therapists (n=60) and parents (n=17), and a focus group with four occupational therapists from various support centers. Results: Although 98% of occupational therapists believe that communication with parents is essential and are interested in expanding their knowledge in this field, in practice only 27% of them meet with parents more than three times per year. Ninety-four percent of parents who responded are interested in direct contact with the occupational therapist. The focus group indicated that treatment in special education settings is detached from the child's family environment and that it is necessary to involve parents as partners in treatment. Corona virus constraints have created the possibility of online contact with parents. Conclusions: The needs assessment presented a need to increase parental partnership and involvement in occupational therapy treatment of children in special education settings. Project product: A kit for Occupational therapists working at special education settings in the Ministry of Education, for increasing parental involvement, which will contain up-to-date information and a variety of ideas, tools, and communication options. Expected Clinical Implications: Parents will be involved in occupational therapy treatments in special education settings, which will help improve their children’s participation.