o update their model. Three primary areas have been modified. They are as follows: including the full family and the community in which they live, creating a stronger and more active commitment to family guided intervention, and emphasizing parent-child interaction as a focus of the intervention process (Special Training for Special Needs, 1996). It is important to offer a broad-based intervention system, which is compatible with the family's life and recognizes the multiple influences and resources that effect the family.The Portage Program is a well structured system to guide family members in the home (and community), allowing them to help their child in a comfortable environment. Portage learning activities stimulate the acquisition of developmental milestones that will surely lead to greater independence and continued parental involvement. As with many popular approaches, Portage has both strengths and weaknesses. Although the system is highly structured, it is also modifiable to reach individual needs. It is inexpensive, available and easy to use. It is also more continuous than most other segmented learning approaches. Another advantage to this program is that it can also be used with older children with a range of impairments if the curriculum is modified. The testing process is non-invasive and can be used in an environment where the child feels safe and secure. By having the parent administer the tests, the child feels less anxiety and pressure, than if a stranger was asking them the questions. There are, however, a few weaknesses to the Portage Project. The system places an additional burden on parents to help their struggling child. It unfairly shifts responsibility from the community to the family. Also, the testing is done individually, so the child is in isolation during the exercises. Currently, Portage is limited in its range of ages and categories of disability served. There is also a need for addition...
