Feasibility and Preliminary Evaluation of Theory-Based Training Program on Daily Living Skills Among Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Findings From Rural Regions in Egypt

Abstract

Background: One of the most crucial objectives in the education and treatment of young children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is independence in daily living skills (DLS). Therefore, as a child with ASD condition grows, measures of everyday functioning including adaptive behaviors should be more regularly monitored and regulated. Aim: The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of a developed theory-based training program and its preliminary effectiveness on the acquisition of DLS among school-age children with ASD. Methods: A preliminary experimental research design (pre- and post-evaluation) was conducted from the beginning of May to the end of July 2023 on 31 children with ASD. The socio-economic status scale, Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale, and Gilliam Autism Rating Scale were administered before and after a theory-based DLS training program. Results: There was a significant difference in the DLS and motor functioning before and after the implementation of the training program ( p < .001 and p = .021, respectively). In addition, there was a significant difference in the total score of autistic severity before and after the implementation of the training program ( p < .001). Conclusion: The promising outcomes of the study indicate the need for further testing and expansion of this intervention. These findings contribute to the growing body of evidence highlighting the significance of DLS training program in the comprehensive treatment approach for children with ASD. Consequently, proposing DLS training programs as a cost-effective and efficient nursing intervention is warranted.