Abstract:

Using a qualitative approach, this study aimed to identify the challenges encountered by children with disabilities and their families during COVID-19 pandemic as a result of changes in their daily routines; examine the strategies and resources families used to deal with these problems; and determine the supports they needed to address them. Data were collected from 40 parents of children with disabilities through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using inductive content analysis. Results of qualitative analysis showed that challenges encountered by families of children with disabilities included changes in daily routines and family priorities, increased problem behaviors exhibited by children, difficulties regarding virtual learning, and adverse impact in intra-family relationships. Consulting with teachers and other professionals, getting help from close family members or friends, using different education platforms, and bonding with family members were among the strategies and resources families used to address challenges they faced. Parents reported needs for psychological, economic, and education support for themselves and their children. COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted lives of children with disabilities and their families in multiple ways. Findings of this study have potentials to guide the future efforts in providing support services to families of children with disabilities and allocating resources in similar situations.

Keywords:

COVID-19, developmental disabilities, parenting, supports, resources, challenges.