Before meeting with parents to discuss the possibility of setting up a program, I require them to do a few things that will really help them gain a sound working knowledge of the RDI® Program. The first is to read a book by Dr. Steven Gutstein called Solving the Relationship Puzzle. While this book uses slightly outdated terminology, this book will be a valuable tool for parents, whether they choose to follow RDI or not. It outlines the foundations of the program, provides the research parents should know about RDI and gives case studies documenting the growth and progress of real children using RDI. In addition, I ask that parents watch Dr. Gutstein's accompanying DVD, so they can see RDI in action for themselves. There is also a "hot list" of books about child development available on the site, along with a new book of family stories, My Baby Can Dance. All of these resources are available on the website, www.rdiconnect.com.

In addition, Dr. Gutstein posts a full roster of scheduled appearances throughout the country on his ConnectionsCenter website. There is no substitute for his intensive conferences and I ask that parents seriously interested in RDI sign up for a four-day conference. In order to be considered for consultation, it will be mandatory to sign up for an upcoming two-day conference.

Because RDI is a unique therapy with it's own set of goals and objectives, I ask that the parents with whom I work use RDI as the primary intervention for their child. That doesn't mean that children shouldn't continue on their charted course of occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech and language intervention if necessary, or managed diet. It is possible for these therapies to co-exist effectively with RDI.

But at this point, I can only work with children whose caregivers are dedicated to RDI as the primary therapy in the child's life. While special circumstances may arise, it is critical that the child's primary caregivers are dedicated to working together for their child. RDI is a parent-based program. It serves to empower you and your child. With RDI, children will learn from activities that involve everyday moments and tasks. In order to do this, it is important to slow down, recognize the opportunities to learn in everyday life, and be willing to spend a few minutes a day working towards goals. A 30-minute videotape will need to be recorded every other week and then will you will be given feedback to help with your current objectives.

During our initial consultation, we will decide if RDI is the right path for your family. We will then schedule our first meetings, which will prepare for the journey of RDI. As per RDI Program Protocol, it is necessary for parents to master certain parent objectives pertaining to RDI knowledge and application before continuing on with objectives for working directly with the child. The consultant and parents will work together to master these goals. While it is understood that parents are anxious to work directly with their child, this time spent in developing a strong foundation in RDI principles will save resources and accelerate progress in the long run. From time to time we will re-address the RDI principles and parent objectives.

Finally, I accept only a limited number of clients and I care deeply about their progress and forward momentum. For this reason, I ask that parents truly consider the time and commitment necessary to implement a successful program. I will need to see videotapes two times per month and we will need to sit down together and discuss your child's progress in detail monthly. Support is available but only as a supplement to the dedicated therapy of the parent or caregiver. Office hours are Monday through Thursday, daytime hours available only.

After parents read through the website, available materials, and complete the Initial Interest Form (available under the Get Started link on the left) they may email it to irelandconsulting@mac.com to request further information.