I thought I’d share the notes I took during an early therapy session where we started learning about Child-Directed Interaction.
Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT)
Helping the non-compliant child – (reference book)
(“parenting the strong-willed child” is the subtitle I believe)
Child-Directed interaction is similar to play therapy and is the first step of PCIT.
Things to do during CDI:
- Behavioral description (sportscaster play-by-play, start with “you”, connect to present activity)
- Reflection (reinforce and rephrase)
- Labeled praise (praise specifics)
- Imitate (do the things they do which are appropriate)
Avoid:
- Commands (direct or indirect)
- Questions (these take the initiative from the child – you are along for the ride)
- Critical statements (this includes sarcasm)
Dealing with misbehavior during CDI:
- Ignore anything that is not dangerous or destructive (don’t smile, frown, or react in other ways).
- Stop your do’s.
- Praise as soon as they act appropriately.
- Stop the play for destructive or aggressive behavior.
Tips & Tricks:
- Have specific toys that are for CDI
- Have a specific place (like the kitchen table)
- Have a regular time
Transfer to Parent-Directed Interaction (PDI) once 5 minutes of CDI produces 10 behavioral descriptions, 10 reflections, and 10 labeled praises and no more than a total of 3 questions, criticisms, and critical statements.
Look for the book 1-2-3 Magic