Autistic Children Have a Voice and Want to Use It: Acceptability of Dyadic, Telehealth, Occupation-Based Coaching

Autistic children may need additional support to manage daily activities compared with their peers. Telehealth occupation-based coaching (OBC) may help them participate in daily activities and develop related skills. Although telehealth OBC is feasible and acceptable to caregivers, its acceptability to children remains unknown. This phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of seven children who completed dyadic, telehealth OBC with their caregivers. We conducted semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis to understand their perspectives on intervention acceptability. Three themes emerged: (1) I want to be included and heard in coaching calls, (2) I can learn to participate in coaching, and (3) I like coaching because I met my goals. Findings suggest that dyadic, telehealth OBC is acceptable to children because it supports their inclusion, fosters self-efficacy in coaching, and contributes to perceived improvements in daily activities. Findings also provide preliminary evidence that this approach can promote child engagement and self-determination.