Factors influencing mothers' learning from paediatric therapists: a qualitative study

A paradigm shift in community-based paediatric therapy has changed the role of parents from passive observers to active partners. As a result, therapists need to acquire an expanded set of skills, which include partnership building and teaching to ensure effective service delivery. This qualitative study explored factors influencing mothers' learning about their child's special needs from their child's therapist. Nine mothers were interviewed regarding their experiences working with, and learning from, their therapists. The interviews were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim, and thematically analyzed. Two major themes emerged: Relationship: More Than Just a Client; and Learning: The Best Teaching Needs a Relationship. Mothers were content with their therapists' approach to teaching, even when it differed from their own typical learning style. Therapists need to be cognizant of their relationship with mothers and ensure that the mothers' needs are being met.