My child is non-verbal, is he ready for the RDI® Program?

The RDI® Program model is based on a developmental approach. Children typically become proficient in many forms of non-verbal communication even before they begin to speak. The infant has mastered inflection, prosody, experience sharing, and looking at their caregiver for information before they speak. When language is the primary focus before these foundations have been laid, many children will speak in an almost robotic manner, and most of their language will be used only to get what they want, not for the true purpose of communication; true communication requires sharing experiences with others and monitoring their reactions to your words. While many children with autism may learn to talk without any intervention, they will not truly communicate in a reciprocal manner.


I don't think I can afford a certified consultant, what else can I do to get started?

Luckily, there are wonderful resources available free of charge to those interested in the RDI® Program. The links page lists some of the yahoo groups that are available to those interested in RDI. All these groups are welcoming to newcomers, and you will find answers to almost any question you may have. The ConnectionsCenter website, www.rdiconnect.com also has a posting area as well as free monthly newsletters that you may subscribe to and weekly chats with Dr. Gutstein and Dr. Sheely. There is a wealth of information available through all of these sites as well as local support groups in the NJ, MD, and PA areas. Email Ireland Consulting if you are interested in attending any of these meetings.


Where can I read more about the research behind the RDI® Program?

The ConnectionsCenter website has a "hot list" of books that the RDI® Program theory rests upon. Some of the world-renowned developmental psychologists and researchers include Alan Sroufe, Daniel Stern, Alan Fogel, Barbara Rogoff, Daniel Siegel, and Peter Hobson. The work of Peter Mundy, Ami Klin, and Nancy Minshew offer a reference to understanding the neurological basis of autism. There is also a promising outcome study available on RDI as a treatment program. A comprehensive list is available on the website. While some of this reading may be intense, it is highly recommended if you are interested in the science behind RDI.


What is the process of ongoing training and research by consultants?

The RDI® Program is devoted to staying up to date with all current autism research. Currently, there is a tremendous gap in the research that is available on autism, and the clinical implementation of this research. The founder of RDI, Dr. Gutstein, refers to RDI as the third generation of autism treatment. RDI is committed to bridging this gap, building awareness of the core deficits of autism, and the hope of remediation. Integrating this knowledge take time, research, rigorous training, publications, studies, and an individualized approach that requires ample planning time. Being a consultant in this program requires intensive training over a year, continuous study, and specialized computer and video equip-ment in order to follow the protocol of analyzing a child's progress It is expected that for every hour spent with a client, at least that much time has been spent planning for your family's needs as well as time spent attending conferences and workshops. As a certified consultant, yearly re-certification requirements are mandatory.


How much time will I spend with a consultant?

Each consultant has unique packages based on their availability and the needs of their clients. When deciding on a consultant that will work best with your family, you will see variations in taping schedules, number of meetings per month, and length of meetings. (Every consultant will require videotaping). Ireland Consulting offers two packages the first year based on client needs, with each meeting approximately 1.5 hours. Generally, there are more meetings in the beginning and fewer as families grow more confident in RDI. Two videotapes per month will be sent to the consultant with feedback returned via email along with homework or journal entries. Occasionally the consultant will come to your home for a meeting.


I am a single parent; can I implement the RDI® Program?

Families in this situation have every reason to believe they can see progress through RDI. However, due to the time, energy, and commitment that RDI entails, it is critical to have another "coach" who can help you along the way. This person can be any family member that is willing to understand and implement RDI along with you.


I have heard that many families who do the RDI® Program have one parent who stays home throughout the workday. Both my spouse and I work- can we do RDI?

While it may be more challenging to manage time, you may certainly be successful in RDI. You will come to learn that RDI is not a therapy in the traditional sense. It becomes a way of life, an underlying methodology in the way you see autism and your goals for your child. When RDI becomes a mindset, it can be integrated into every part of the day. Remember, it is quality, not just quantity.


Can I just purchase the book and use the activities? I know a professional who read the book and will help me implement activities.

While the books are a great starting point, just like any other intensive approach, RDI is much more than activities. It is impossible to implement RDI by using only the book, or even following the guidance of someone who attended a two-day workshop. While it is up to each individual family to work with whom they choose, the ConnectionsCenter follows a strict protocol, utilizing only RDI® Program Certified Consultants (listed on the web-site) who underwent thorough training. As mentioned before, RDI is based on the latest research in autism, and this dynamic approach requires continuous training and collaboration by certified consultants or consultants-in-training. Also, keep in mind that the books were published several years ago, so some of the terminology and stages may be out of date, but the general principles remain the same.


Can I hire someone else- a therapist- to run my program?

RDI® Program Certified Consultants and the ConnectionsCenter strictly enforce the protocol of RDI, which includes parents as the primary coaches in the RDI® Program. Of course you may have the need for extra help throughout the day in the form of babysitters for other children while you do RDI with your child, down time for the whole family, and at times extra help with implementing your RDI program. However, when you understand the foundations of RDI, you will see how critical the caregiver/child relationship is to a child's development. No one cares for your child like you do, and while it is perfectly understandable that you may need help from time to time, you will become the one who understands your and your child's goals the best. A consultant should be there in order to build your confidence and offer support.


I have read that the RDI® Program protocol includes RDI as the primary intervention. Why is this so if it focuses on only social skills?

First, it is a myth that RDI only focuses on social and play skills. RDI is a developmental approach that looks at the full picture of autism, including the deficits in flexible thinking, social referencing, experience sharing, coordination, emotional regulation, communication, and relationship building. Questions such as, "Can you help my child get a friend and say hello to his peers?" are not simple or quickly answered. Having a friend or playing with others first requires proficiency in coordinating with others, recognizing their feelings, emotions, and reactions while simultaneously regulating and monitoring your own behavior. This complex system is not taught by a quick fix; it requires time and a full understanding of developmental growth. All children need to build on a solid foundation, and programs that focus on acquiring skills before a child has this emotional foundation may reach a wall or create new problems. Families that are committed to building these critical foundations will see that they no longer have to rely on scripted interactions as a teaching tool. RDI takes energy and time from both parents and child. All children, especially those with autism, only have a limited amount of "metal energy" available to work on learning. Learning how to think flexibly, be mindful, and enjoy relationships with others takes enormous amounts of energy for those with autism. It is not effective to consider RDI as a supplementary piece to an already intensive program. Each family needs to commit to addressing the core deficits of autism and recognize which conditions are occurring alongside ASD. (Fine motor, physical, speech apraxia, etc.) If these other areas need to be addressed, then they can certainly be approached in conjunction with an RDI program.


Will I have to commit to videotaping every other week?

Yes, this is a critical element to the success of a consultant in working with your family. Videotaping allows for a specialized analysis of your child and your progress. It is also vital that both parents or caregivers participate in this process.


So…do I have to buy tons of beanbags?

The answer is no, while you may purchase beanbags; it is not critical that you do so. Many of the early RDI activities utilized beanbags, and they can be helpful. If you don't want to buy a lot, two or three should do, and they can be purchased at a local store for a reasonable price. However, you will need a space in your house that is set aside for RDI- free of distractions and obstacles. You will also need a video camera with a wide-angle lens attached and a tripod or wall mount.