Parent-implemented home therapy programmes for speech and language: a systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Parent-delivered home programmes are frequently used to remediate speech and language difficulties in young children. However, the evidence base for this service delivery model is limited.

AIMS: The aim of this systematic review is to investigate the effectiveness of parent-implemented home programmes in facilitating the development of children's speech and language skills, and to evaluate the cost-effectiveness and feasibility of this service delivery method.

METHODS & PROCEDURES: A systematic search of the PsycINFO, CINAHL and ERIC databases was conducted. Quality appraisal of individual studies was conducted. Findings from each of the studies were then integrated to report on outcomes for the child, the parent and the service.

OUTCOMES & RESULTS: There is preliminary evidence that home programmes can lead to growth in a child's speech and language skills and are more effective than no intervention, provided the home programmes are used with high dosage rates and direct parent training.

CONCLUSIONS & IMPLICATIONS: Home programmes are a potentially useful service delivery model, but caution should be exercised when considering their use to address broader service delivery challenges. Further high-level evidence is needed across all facets of this service delivery model.