Partners in quality: a study of the characteristics of quality early intervention

Abstract

This study focuses on the early intervention services provided to children with special needs and their families in two districts, Wellington and the Hutt Valley. The study describes the current services available in the two areas. It also identifies demographic, socio-economic and other characteristics affecting choice of service. The study brings together parent and professional perceptions of what characterises provision of quality early intervention. General information was gained through reading and analysis of current literature related to early intervention. Specific information was received through face to face interviews with professionals representing service providers working in the area of early intervention in the two named districts. Parent perspectives were gained through face to face interviews with parents of fifteen children in each district who were receiving an early intervention service. Random names of families were provided by the Special Education Service. Data gained from interviews were analysed and collated to identify significant quality characteristics. The study shows that families who receive an early intervention service are likely to have a higher education level than average families. Parents are also more likely to be in professional-managerial occupations than the average parent. The study draws from the work of Urie Bronfenbrenner in relating quality to the nature of the partnerships which exist at all levels of early intervention provision.