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Parents of Children Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder: What Do They Expect and Experience from Preschools?

Authors :
Westman Andersson G
Gillberg N
Miniscalco C
Source :
Neuropsychiatric disease and treatment [Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat] 2021 Sep 28; Vol. 17, pp. 3025-3037. Date of Electronic Publication: 2021 Sep 28 (Print Publication: 2021).
Publication Year :
2021

Abstract

Background: In Sweden, children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) as well as other children in need of special support, according to the law should be provided stimulation and support for their development in their preschools. Parents of children diagnosed with ASD have been shown to struggle to ensure the right to support for their child from society, including in preschool. This study reports parent expectations and experiences when having a child diagnosed with ASD in preschool.<br />Methods: A questionnaire with 12 open-ended and 9 multiple-choice questions was completed by parents of 26 children (3 girls, 23 boys, mean age 4:3 years). The children had been diagnosed with ASD within the last year. The data were analyzed using a qualitative inductive approach with a content analysis of the open-ended questions.<br />Findings and Conclusions: This study shows that parents expect competence and knowledge about ASD among preschool staff, including the principal. They need continuous dialogue between parents and the preschool staff and expect individualized support for their child. Concerns about their child in preschool frequently occurred.<br />Competing Interests: The authors declared that they have no conflict of interests. This study was conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki.<br /> (© 2021 Westman Andersson et al.)

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1176-6328
Volume :
17
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Neuropsychiatric disease and treatment
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
34611403
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.2147/NDT.S324291