Group programmes for parents of children with various handicaps

Area of Science:

• Special Education
• Psychology
• Parenting Support

Background:

• Parenting children with disabilities presents unique challenges.
• Effective support systems are crucial for families of children with special needs.
• Existing services for parents in New Zealand primarily focused on individual support.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the organization and salient features of group parent programs.
• To evaluate the perceived value of these programs for parents of children with various handicaps.
• To highlight the role of these programs in training special education teachers.

Main Methods:

• Conducted group programs for parents of children with physical, hearing, and mild to moderate intellectual disabilities.
• Programmes consisted of 6-8 weekly 2-hour sessions.
• Sessions included lectures and small group discussions led by educational psychologists using reflective and behavioral techniques.

Main Results:

• Post-programme questionnaires and attendance data indicated parents found the programs valuable.
• The programs successfully trained special education teachers in necessary skills and attitudes for parent collaboration.
• Group programs were seen as a valuable complement to existing individual services.

Conclusions:

• Group parent programs are a valuable resource for families of children with disabilities.
• These programs effectively enhance the skills of special education teachers in working with parents.
• The integration of group programs offers a complementary approach to existing support services in New Zealand.