Parental guidance in occupational therapy: Promoting the participation of children with autism spectrum disorder in everyday life activities - a scoping review

Abstract: Abstract   Aim This study aimed to determine what is known from the existing literature about parental guidance during occupational therapy to promote the participation of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in everyday activities. Method  The scoping review methodology was used to gather existing information on the topic. The following databases were used for searches: The Allied and Complementary Medicine Database (AMED), Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), and MEDLINE.  Results Ten studies were included in this study, as they met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The results of the selected studies were thematically organised. Three key elements emerged from the results that promoted the participation of children with ASD in everyday life activities: increased knowledge and awareness of parents; new practices and changes in everyday life; supporting and strengthening parenting.  Conclusion  The findings of this study suggest that parents have a central role to play in promoting child participation. Parental guidance is an ideal way to promote the participation of ASD children in everyday activities, as parents are involved in children’s daily lives and influence children’s natural environments. The results of this study can be utilized in occupational therapy practice for the implementation of interventions. Keywords: ASD, children with ASD, daily activities, involvement, occupational therapy, parental guidance