Touchpoints really is a way of being with people.
It's a relational framework
that helps us join families in this work.
So one of the reasons I think it's such a value
to CIS providers to go through Touchpoints
is that it gives us assumptions and beliefs
that we can work from that support the relationship
we have with families.
So, for instance, understanding that all parents
want to do well by their child
is really a great frame for entering into our work
with families and giving them sort of that belief,
that assumption, without them having to prove that,
that really helps, 'cause some of the work is really hard.
You know, a part of Touchpoints is,
an important part of Touchpoints
is a reflective practice piece, so working with colleagues,
and actually the same principles and assumptions again,
because it's a relational framework,
helps us strengthen our practice and keep ourselves well.
I think it actually is one of the primary tools
for helping us.
Sometimes the work, again, is really hard and so, you know,
it gives us a way to process that work
and take care of ourselves doing it.
One example of a really powerful Touchpoint principle
is to use the behavior of the child as your language.
So, you know, if you are worried about talking with a parent
about their child's development,
like maybe the child is delayed during an early intervention
and they're not talking yet,
and that seems like a hard thing to say to a parent.
Touchpoints gives you a framework for saying,
"Well, what do you observe about your child,
and they're talking right now.
I see them using this word,"
and so really focusing on the child's behavior
rather than thinking,
I have this hard news I have to deliver.
It's, you know, just, it's very practical.
It's not a script, it's not, "Here, say this thing."
It helps you react in the moment
and understand in the moment how best to engage,
given what's happening in front of you.