BRIGHT Coaching Program for Families

Parents will interact and communicate regularly with a coach in person or by telephone. Coaches will be responsible for: identifying developmental concerns, proactive health promotion, guidance and training for developmental stimulation, parent support and education about child development, navigation of the health care system and self-management techniques. The frequency of coaching will be: once a month (minimum), for 18 months, at an average of 2.5 hours per month.

Parents will be provided access to an online platform which will provide educational resources and access to parent-parent support. Online resources on child development are curated by researchers and representative of parent groups, and linked to this online platform. The themes covered in the online tool include resources on child development, accessing health care services and managing emotions and family dynamics. These topics range from: practical tips for managing day-to-day challenges, strategies to cope and support the child's transitions from one stage to another, practical tips when looking for developmental services for the child: knowing where and how to access services.

Parents will have access to a secure online social media tool to connect to other parents going through a similar experience. Through this tool, parents can help support each other, and share their experiences and knowledge. This will put each family at the centre of each network (family, friends, health providers), allowing family networks to link with one another. Families will be able to find resources, create connections with the coach, health providers and other families, thus creating a network to support one another.