Early Intervention Delivery Methods for New Zealand Children with Autism: Current Practices Versus Parental Preferences

Little is known about parent preferences regarding delivery methods of early interventions. This research examined, through parent report, the current and preferred delivery methods of seven common educational early interventions accessed by New Zealand children with autism spectrum disorder. Responses from 63 eligible participants were collected via an online questionnaire. Results suggested that four of the seven early intervention services were predominantly delivered through some form of professional advice to parents. Participants who were receiving at least one privately funded service were more likely to have at least one service delivered directly to their child. Parents’ most preferred delivery method for all early intervention services, except parent education programs, involved a professional working directly with their child.