DDPE Module 2: Critical Questions for the Parent Interview (Part 1)

Differential Diagnosis in Preschool Evaluations: A Case Study
Module 2: Critical Questions for the Parent Interview (Part 1)
Cate presents the first part of the parent interview. Research has demonstrated that parents provide crucial information regarding their children in distinguishing a disability versus a difference. Cate reviews the critical questions that should be asked of the parent and begins the interview with Alex’s mother. She reviews family educational level (indicator of socioeconomic status). She also gets a detailed language history including what languages family members have been exposed to as well as what languages the child has been exposed to over time. Cate also reviews milestones in Alex’s language development such as first words and utterances, including receptive ability such as responding and following directions. Then she gathers information regarding any family history of speech/language and learning disorders as there are frequently genetic components. However, it’s important to note that especially with bilingual and diverse individuals, there is a high rate of false positives (i.e. individuals misdiagnosed with a disability). She also asks about any recent changes (within the last 6 months) in the family structure that may significantly affect the child’s performance in the evaluation or overall development. She asks about the child’s current educational environment and any supports he receives. One of the most important critical questions is the parent’s impression of the child’s language development compared to typical peers (or siblings at that age). Research has demonstrated this to be one of the most effective pieces of information in determining disability (Restrepo, 1998). Research has also demonstrated another important critical question, asking if the child is perceived as clumsy (Goffman, 2010). Children with SLI also tend to have low average motor skills. Cate indicates where all this information should go in the evaluation. The parent interview continues in the next module.
Critical Questions on LEADERS: edblogs.columbia.edu/leadersp...
Model Evaluation for Alex on LEADERS: leadersproject.org/media/docum...
IEP Goals developed for Alex on LEADERS: leadersproject.org/media/docum...
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jslhr.pubs.asha.org/article.as...
DDPE Playlist: www.leadersproject.org/2015/04...