Comments on: 11 Things a Millennial Parent Wished a Generation-X EI Provider Knew

By: Tier-ra Henry, BSW, CFCS-HDFS

Tier-ra Henry, BSW, CFCS-HDFS — Tue, 12 Jun 2018 14:33:42 +0000

Definitely agree! Thanks for that very important reminder Jennifer! It is a thin line we have to walk. Coaching makes it easy because we are lead by the families wants and desires while not keeping them unaware of any dangers they may present . I often encourage families to interact with their kiddo with the use of the app. We make a session of it especially if the family is using them in their free time. There was a link of apps sent out a couple years ago that gave a great list of apps for children with speech delays. If I can find it, I’ll list the link below! Thanks for your input!

By: Dana Childress, PhD

Dana Childress, PhD — Tue, 12 Jun 2018 12:10:15 +0000

In reply to Mary Kay.

That’s a great point, Mary Kay. Practitioners should always check with their agencies about texting and emailing first. There are agencies in VA where these types of communication are just not permitted.

By: Jennifer Keesler

Jennifer Keesler — Tue, 12 Jun 2018 01:32:23 +0000

Thanks for the reminders, texting comes easy for me, but using apps for learning at this age is a difficult one, with all the research on blue screen time and reducing usage for this age group, it’s hard for me to suggest using them with the babies. I do agree that having families watch you tube or even videos of themselves is beneficial for both learning insights and reflection.

By: Tier-ra Henry, BSW, CFCS-HDFS

Tier-ra Henry, BSW, CFCS-HDFS — Mon, 11 Jun 2018 20:17:57 +0000

In reply to Mary Kay.

Absolutely love this reminder! We do the same at our office. A release of info as well as checking the box on their IFSP that this is one of their preferred ways of contact. Thanks Mary Kay!

By: Tier-ra Henry, BSW, CFCS-HDFS

Tier-ra Henry, BSW, CFCS-HDFS — Mon, 11 Jun 2018 20:14:55 +0000

In reply to Betsy Donoghue.

Thanks Betsy! Kudos to you on meeting clients where they are. I believe apps and etc. really help our parents become more proactive in learning how to help their little ones. Thanks for sharing!

By: Betsy Donoghue

Betsy Donoghue — Mon, 11 Jun 2018 18:13:03 +0000

As a Baby Boomer and parent to 3 Millennials, I have learned to communicate by text and social media. I have had good relationships with my Early Intervention families through use of text. I do keep my Facebook posts for my personal life and not for EI families, and they understand.
Thanks for the reminder to make use of apps and You Tube! It will help families find and use important developmental info!
Betsy

By: Mary Kay

Mary Kay — Mon, 11 Jun 2018 17:18:24 +0000

Good info, but one note on this: Text is NOT HIPAA protected, so our office has parents sign a permission to text form at the initial visit with explanation to parents that the therapist will never put the child’s name in a text. We say something like “next visit is Tues at 10am.” Something to think about as a privacy precaution.

By: Tier-ra

Tier-ra — Mon, 11 Jun 2018 15:28:48 +0000

In reply to Dorine.

Thank you Dorine! Differences can hinder or promote growth. I believe the key is understanding. Thanks for your comment.

By: Tier-ra

Tier-ra — Mon, 11 Jun 2018 15:24:37 +0000

You are exactly right. It seems you understand some of these cultural challenges. Thanks for your input.

By: Shanel

Shanel — Sat, 09 Jun 2018 10:39:09 +0000

This post presents a necessary conversation for social service providers and educators who teach children with special needs. Any educator worth her salt desires to build and maintain healthy partnerships with parents. However, common characteristics demonstrated by this generation may be viewed as indifference. Educators, especially those less familiar with these mods of communication, must be willing to adapt to these cultural changes for the benefit of students.

Thanks for providing such valuable insight!