Kentucky EI Caregiver Coaching

Definition

A collaborative approach in which EI providers partner with caregivers to support their children’s development and learning within their everyday routines and activities.

Desired Outcomes

Increase the confidence and competence of families and caregivers of children from birth to age 3 with developmental delays or disabilities to optimize their children's development and learning.

Coachees

Caregivers

Theoretical Underpinnings

Adult learning theory
Family-centered practices
Routines-based intervention
Strengths-based practices
Caregiver-mediated practices
National learning environment practices

Key Components

Joint planning
Observation
Guided Practice
Reflection
Feedback
Relationships.

Fidelity Measures

Kentucky Coaching Adherence Rubric-Revised

References

Coaching in Early Intervention Training and Mentorship Program at U of L

Tomchek, S. D., Wheeler, S., Cheek, C., Little, L., & Dunn, W. (2024, October). Development, field testing, and initial validation of an adherence rubric for caregiver coaching. Frontiers in Education (Vol. 9, p. 1324118).

Wheeler, S., Dunn, W., & Tomchek, S.D. (2025). Coaching in early intervention training and mentorship program: Development and implementation. Topics in Early Childhood Special Education.