Project ImPACT Update

Issue: March 2026

Focus: Theory of Change

Unlocking the Mechanisms of Coaching

How the relationship between coach and caregiver transforms family quality of life through the Project ImPACT framework.

Research Spotlight

Theory of Change of Caregiver Coaching for an Early Parent-Mediated Autism Intervention

Authors: Kyle M. Frost and Brooke Ingersoll
Journal: Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders (2025)

This qualitative study developed a comprehensive Theory of Change for Project ImPACT. By interviewing experts, providers, and caregivers, the researchers identified the mechanisms that lead to success in parent-mediated intervention.

Mechanistic Pathways

Success is driven by two key processes: Learning (knowledge acquisition) and Motivation (self-efficacy).

Beyond Communication

Coaching enhances family quality of life, increases caregiver advocacy, and aligns family goals.

The Coach-Parent Dyad

The coaching relationship acts as a “contextual fit” filter for the family’s unique routine.

Sustainment

When caregivers understand the why, they use strategies long after formal coaching ends.

Practice Notes

Coaching is most effective when it addresses both the head (knowledge) and the heart (motivation):

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Observe Child Cues – Encourage caregivers to observe child cues to build self-efficacy. Seeing a child respond is the strongest motivator.

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Simplify Coaching Language – Ensure the caregiver feels like a collaborative partner. When parents feel heard, motivation increases.

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Identify “Micro-Moments” – Find opportunities in laundry or snack time to reduce burden and increase contextual fit.

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Explain the “Why” – Explain the mechanism of why a strategy works. This leads to better skill sustainment over time.

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Collaborative Adjustments – If a strategy feels stressful, it won’t be sustained. Flexibility is key to family quality of life.

Announcements

Project ImPACT Virtual Advanced Course

Next cohort: **April 20-23, 2026**. Designed to maximize caregiver buy-in and outcomes.

Fidelity Review & Case Consultation Booster

Refine your implementation with collaborative expert consultation.

Theory of Change Infographic

Updated provider resource for caregiver orientation.

Download Resource

Website and software developed by 3C Institute. Prepared with the assistance of Gemini.

Theory of Change of Project ImPACT – March 2026