As the capstone student for my occupational therapy doctorate at Valparaiso University, I developed this resource to support the integration of family-centered practice within GoBabyGo programming. This project was created in response to gaps identified in the literature and in practice, including variability in volunteer preparation, inconsistent caregiver training, and limited structured guidance to support family-centered interactions. Given the critical role that early powered mobility plays in promoting cognitive, social, and motor development, it is essential that programs not only provide adaptive equipment, but also foster meaningful, collaborative experiences for children and their families.
This manual includes a Systems Guide for Program Leaders as well as comprehensive Volunteer Training Modules grounded in family-centered care principles, therapeutic use of self, and established occupational therapy frameworks (PEOP and HAAT). The goal is to support both program-level implementation and individual volunteer preparation in a way that enhances participation, caregiver engagement, and long-term device use.
You can access the full resource here: Enhancing Family-Centered Practice in GoBabyGo
I am seeking feedback on this manual from individuals involved in GoBabyGo programs, as your perspectives and experiences are invaluable. As content experts, your input will help refine and strengthen these materials to better support programs and families.
After reviewing the materials, I kindly ask that you complete a brief Google Form to provide feedback: Content Expert Review
All feedback, whether related to content, structure, usability, or implementation, is greatly appreciated. Thank you for your time, expertise, and continued commitment to improving the GoBabyGo experience for children and their families.