Infant observation in the training of professionals working with disabled children and their families: Experiences from teaching Infant Observation as part of a Master’s programme at the University of Vienna

This paper focuses on the significance of including Infant Observation as part of a Master’s programme training professionals who work in the homes of families with disabled children and children at risk, from birth to 5 years of age. A four-year Master’s programme at the University of Vienna qualifies students for this work. The students work in the family home as part of their placement. One student’s Work Discussion notes illustrate the challenge. The significance of Infant Observation as preparation, particularly in finding and establishing one’s place, and writing detailed accounts of the observation for discussion in the observation seminar are essential preparation for the later work task as well as work discussion.