This capstone project conceptualizes a program proposal for the stakeholders of an early intervention (EI) program that would benefit from offering a series of family bonding classes to families of young children with autism. The focus of the classes will be to educate parents and caregivers of children newly diagnosed with autism. The education will comprise of the effects of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) on family relationships. It will model effective and evidence-based contextual coaching techniques in the family’s natural environment, and will coach parents on the developmental, individual difference, and relationship-based (DIR)/Floortime model as an intervention that facilitates parent and sibling bonding. Additionally, the intent of this capstone will be to contribute to building stronger family relationships and social interactions by using evidence-based interventions that occupational therapists can employ in contributing to the child occupations of play and socialization. The experiences created through this program will offer parents the tools necessary to increase family interactions among siblings as well. The daily demands of therapeutic interventions and parenting a child with special needs often leaves family members longing for a deeper connection and emotional attachment. The participation, love, and support of family and friends will be instrumental in order to successfully implement Family Bonding for Children With Autism.
