Home practice is a key component in promoting generalisation of what is learned in speech and language therapy sessions to the real world. Yet time constraints, stress, ambivalence toward practice and increased care demands when a child has a disability can make it difficult for parents or carers to facilitate practice outside of therapy. In this study, two to three sessions of ‘motivational interviewing’ was offered to three caregivers of children with mild-moderate speech sound disorders. Motivational interview conversations were held on zoom for up to 30 minutes and focused on conversations about facilitating home practice, whereby the investigator guided the conversation by asking open questions, engaging in reflective listening and summarising. Results demonstrated that when motivational interviewing was introduced, home practice increased. Whilst therapists do not always have time to plan for home practice tasks, the evidence from this small study suggests that this investment of time is worthwhile. Delivering brief tailored interventions with parents and carers can increase home-based practice, and thus the likelihood of generalisations. In the long term, this is an economical investment, reducing the need for ongoing support for the child.
Invest in parents: motivation is key
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