Parent and worker expectations and experiences of early childhood services for parents with children with a disability

Aim: To understand the expectations and experiences of parents with children with a disability attending early childhood services: (a) how parents explored daycare and pre-school options, (b) how they negotiated the conditions of enrolment, and (c) how they maintained involvement and the ongoing relationship between the parents and early childhood service. Method: A case study approach:  parents and the early childhood worker most involved in the care of their child participated in narrative based, semi-structured interviews. Results: The parent case studies represented a wide range of experiences with preschool and long daycare services. The pre-school/ child-care experience was regarded as most positive and beneficial to all when the parent and worker shared in common: (a) their expectations, (b) an understanding of the child's disability, (c) an openness in discussing their experiences, and (d) their definition of success. Conclusions: This presentation will focus on what constitutes a 'good fit' between parents and preschool and daycare services.