Parent Centered Planning: A new practice model for working with parents with intellectual and developmental disabilities

Abstract

This article discusses the need for more models and interventions that focus on the broader support systems of parents with disabilities. Parent centered planning is introduced as a potential model for helping parents with intellectual and developmental disabilities to begin to build the formal and informal parental supports needed for parenting their children. This model builds on the person centered planning model, but focuses on planning in regards to an individual’s parenting role, including an individual’s parenting desires and goals, along with the needs of the parent’s child. The article discusses the potential uses of this model, including as a standalone planning process, a part of the ongoing provision of supports, or as a support for referral from child protection services.