Parental experiences using the Therapy Outcomes by You (TOBY) application to deliver early intervention to their child with autism

ABSTRACT

Purpose: As computer-based interventions become commonplace for parents of children with neurodevelopmental disorders, this study sought to understand the experience of using a parent-delivered supplementary early intervention therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder grounded in a variety of behavioral, sensory, developmental, and relationship-based approaches and delivered via a tablet device. Methods: Parental experiences using the ‘Therapy Outcomes by You’ (TOBY) application were collected through semi-structured interviews with 17 parents. Results: Parents reported TOBY facilitated parent–child engagement, provided ideas for therapeutic activities, created feelings of empowerment, and positively impacted their child’s development. Barriers to use included preparation time, execution of the intervention, and individual strengths and weaknesses of their child. Conclusion: The overall parental experience of TOBY was positive when use of the application aligned with parental proficiency, opportunities for use, and importantly, the needs of the child.

Keywords:

• App
• iPad
• intervention
• technology
• treatment

Acknowledgments

The authors wish to acknowledge Dr Chiara Horlin and her efforts in preparation of this manuscript for publication. The authors also wish to acknowledge the Telethon Kids Institute: Autism Research Team including Alena Dass, and Autism West, for their support and assistance throughout this study. Additionally, the participants are acknowledged for their willingness to share their experiences for this study and for the time that they committed.

Declaration of interest

The authors report no conflicts of interest

Additional information

Funding

AW is supported by a Senior Research Fellowship from the National Health and Medical Council (APP1077966).