Navigating Early Intervention: The Experiences and Impact of a Parent Coaching Model on Immigrant and Refugee Families in Rural Massachusetts

Authors

Emily PleasantFollow

Embargo Period

8-5-2025

Degree Name

MA in Intercultural Service, Leadership, and Management

First Advisor

Dr. Bruce Dayton

Second Advisor

Dr. Carolina Castro

Abstract

Early Intervention (EI) programs play a critical role in supporting the developmental needs of children from birth to age three. This study explores the experiences of immigrant and refugee families engaging with EI services in rural Massachusetts, focusing particularly on the implementation and effectiveness of parent coaching models. Utilizing a mixed methods design that incorporates both narrative and phenomenological approaches, the research examines how families from culturally diverse backgrounds perceive and engage with EI services. This study discusses what barriers or facilitators they encounter throughout their journeys with Early Intervention. Preliminary findings suggest challenges related to language, cultural differences in child rearing, and training in culturally competent and trauma informed care. This study highlights the need for more inclusive and responsive EI practices to better support vulnerable populations in rural settings.

Keywords: Early Intervention, parent coaching, immigrant families, refugee families, cultural competence, rural home-based services

Disciplines

Accessibility | Bilingual, Multilingual, and Multicultural Education | Development Studies | Disability and Equity in Education | Early Childhood Education | Other Social and Behavioral Sciences | Pre-Elementary, Early Childhood, Kindergarten Teacher Education | Social Justice | Special Education and Teaching

Recommended Citation

Pleasant, Emily, "Navigating Early Intervention: The Experiences and Impact of a Parent Coaching Model on Immigrant and Refugee Families in Rural Massachusetts" (2025). Capstone Collection. 3337.
https://digitalcollections.sit.edu/capstones/3337