Experiences of Caregivers of Children With Disabilities at Bishop West Primary School, Mukono
Loading...
Date
2023-09-29
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Uganda Christian University
Abstract
The study examined the experiences of caregivers of children with disabilities at Bishop West Primary School, Mukono. The study was guided by objectives which included; establishing the attitude of caregivers towards children with disabilities, finding out the challenges caregivers of children with disabilities face and establishing the copying mechanisms of caregivers to children with disabilities. The study was carried out using an explanatory research design where a mixed methods research approach was also used. The data were collected using questionnaires and interviews and during the data collection, both purposive and simple random sampling methods were used. A sample size of 52 respondents who were parents of children with disabilities in Bishop West P/S and caregivers of children with disabilities at the school was also used in the study. The study findings revealed a generally positive attitude among caregivers towards children with disabilities, with caregivers expressing comfort in interacting with these children and recognizing their enriching diversity. However, significant challenges persist, including limited access to essential educational resources, communication barriers with school staff, financial burdens, and social stigma. Caregivers employ various coping mechanisms, such as building support networks, engaging in self-care, advocating for their children, and participating in workshops and support groups, to address these challenges. While the school community exhibits inclusivity, there remains room for improvement in supporting children with disabilities and their caregivers. Enhancing awareness and addressing these challenges can contribute to a more inclusive and supportive educational environment for children with disabilities at Bishop West Primary School. Finally, the study recommended that Bishop West Primary School should enhance educational resource accessibility, promote effective communication between caregivers and school staff, expand extracurricular opportunities, explore financial support options for families with children with disabilities, continue disability awareness efforts, provide support networks and counseling, promote parent-teacher collaboration, and implement regular assessments and feedback mechanisms to improve support systems for children with disabilities and their caregivers.
Description
This is a dissertation.