9 Tips for Building Relationships in Early Intervention

Your success in Early Intervention often hinges on your ability to develop trusting and respectful relationships with the families with which you work.^1,2

Through years of ups and downs while working in Early Intervention, I have learned and adapted my approach. Here are some tips and tricks I’ve found to be helpful in forming meaningful relationships with my clients and their families:

Failsafe Ways to Build Relationships

1. Fall in Love with the Child

   On day one, acknowledge mom and/or dad with a smile and eye contact as you say hello, but also look and smile at the child to reveal that you are enamored and delighted to be there. Compliment the child immediately making sure to include the parent(s). Showing that you love kids builds immediate trust.

2. Be Humble

   You are an expert in child development. The parent is the expert on their child. Don’t ever forget that. Use family friendly language and honor what they reveal to you.

3. Listen

   Learn to listen and stay in the moment. Hear their words, read the body language, don’t plan your responses, instead, reflect back what they said. Only provide input if they ask a question.³

4. Don’t Judge

   Be culturally competent and let go of stereotypes.⁴ Your only concerns should be what that family needs, what that family wants, and how you can help. Once those answers are revealed, do your job.

5. Be Flexible

   Be willing to adjust your schedule; look at things from different perspectives; problem solve; and keep learning.

6. Don’t Be a Doormat

   Being flexible does not mean bending so much that your personal life is impacted. Don’t let families use you in ways you were not meant to be used. For example, don’t feel financially obligated to that family. Don’t let them reveal too much about their personal lives. You must set boundaries and let them know your care but your generosity has limits.

7. Be a Chameleon

   Know your audience. I am most comfortable with families with whom I can be mildly sarcastic and casual. Not all families appreciate that side of me. I have to adjust my style based on their comfort level. It is not about me. Sometimes it is hard, but I must conform to gain the trust and respect I need to provide the best intervention for that family.

8. Ask Questions

   Never assume you know anything – clarify everything, be specific, and never pretend you know something you don’t.

9. Be Real but Avoid Friendship

   I always share personal stories with families because I know that it builds trust. If the family knows that I struggle with parenting or life circumstances just like them, they will trust me in times that I am asking them to step outside of their comfort zone. However, this sharing cannot exist outside of the intervention. Decline invitations to parties and social media. Keep it as professional as possible.

Lifelong Learning

It is an honor to work with families in the intimate setting of their homes. I enjoy each family for different reasons. Each unique experience teaches me so much, including how to be a better parent, person, and teacher. I cherish my families and know that, although EI can be taxing on emotions, with each new “hello” my life and career will improve.