Brief Online Group Coaching for Mothers of Children with Sensory Differences: A Pilot Study

Sensory differences are associated with disruption to daily occupations for both children and families. A one-to-one coaching approach with mothers is effective in increasing performance and satisfaction in children's daily occupations, and in reducing maternal stress. The study aimed to pilot a brief online group coaching intervention for mothers of children with sensory differences.

Eleven mothers participated in a brief online group coaching intervention of four x 90-minute sessions, based on Occupational Performance Coaching (OPC). Mothers gave both quantitative and qualitative feedback on their experience in the group. Mothers reported child occupational goals, maternal stress, and maternal sense of competence pre and post intervention.

Statistically significant improvement in child occupations and aspects of maternal stress were observed. Maternal sense of competence showed improvement but did not reach statistical significance. They valued the sensory focus and found the group safe and supportive; they also gave feedback on how groups could be improved.

For mothers of children with sensory differences and associated occupational concerns, a brief online group coaching intervention, based on OPC, has the potential to support child occupational performance and reduce maternal stress.