Supporting parents of children with learning impairments

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to assess school-based psycho-educational support to parents of children with learning impairments and how the parents' needs differ according to the age of the child, the severity of the learning impairment and the educational status of the parent.

The study presents a literature review of the neuro-physiological origin of learning impairments, cognitive development, common problems experienced by children with learning impairments, the effects on the family of having a child with learning impairments and an overview of school support services in South Africa.

A survey study was used. Data was collected by means of a questionnaire. The results of the study showed that parents need to be equipped with knowledge and skills irrespective of the age of the child, the severity of the learning impairment, the number of years the child has been in special school and the educational status of the parents.