Professionals’ Perceptions on Family-Centered Early Childhood Intervention for Children with Developmental Delays in Kosovo
Journal
International Journal of Management Studies and Social Science Research
Date Issued
2024-01
Author(s)
Gyltene Retkoceri Hoxha
DOI
https://doi.org/10.56293/IJMSSSR.2024.5323
Abstract
Early Childhood Intervention (ECI) services play a crucial role in supporting children with
developmental delays and/or disabilities, focusing on both child and family needs. However, barriers such as
funding limitations, policy gaps, and societal stigma can restrict access and quality of these services. This study
sought to capture the perceptions of ECI professionals in Kosovo regarding current service delivery, training
requirements, challenges, and key priorities for strengthening support. Data was collected from 70 professionals
across various roles through a structured survey that addressed service settings, professional development,
perceived obstacles, and improvement recommendations. Analysis showed that most ECI sessions occur at
service centers (84.93%) or childcare facilities (10.50%), while home-based interventions remain limited (0.70%).
Although nearly all respondents receive some form of in-service training, over one-third reported receiving less
than 10 hours annually. Significant challenges highlighted by professionals included community stigma affecting
(10.51%) of families and funding constraints cited by (9.30%) of respondents. To enhance service effectiveness,
professionals emphasized the need for expanded advocacy, stronger policy support, increased developmental
assessments, and more robust training opportunities.
developmental delays and/or disabilities, focusing on both child and family needs. However, barriers such as
funding limitations, policy gaps, and societal stigma can restrict access and quality of these services. This study
sought to capture the perceptions of ECI professionals in Kosovo regarding current service delivery, training
requirements, challenges, and key priorities for strengthening support. Data was collected from 70 professionals
across various roles through a structured survey that addressed service settings, professional development,
perceived obstacles, and improvement recommendations. Analysis showed that most ECI sessions occur at
service centers (84.93%) or childcare facilities (10.50%), while home-based interventions remain limited (0.70%).
Although nearly all respondents receive some form of in-service training, over one-third reported receiving less
than 10 hours annually. Significant challenges highlighted by professionals included community stigma affecting
(10.51%) of families and funding constraints cited by (9.30%) of respondents. To enhance service effectiveness,
professionals emphasized the need for expanded advocacy, stronger policy support, increased developmental
assessments, and more robust training opportunities.
Subjects
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