GROUPS FOR PARENTS OF PRESCHOOL-CHILDREN WITH SEVERE DISABILITIES

The emotional impact upon the family following the diagnosis of a chil d's disability is significant although parents feel that their needs a re not specifically addressed by professionals. A series of groups for the parents of pre-school children with severe disabilities are descr ibed. The groups are designed to provide parents with an opportunity t o discuss in depth the impact of their childs' disability upon themsel ves, their partners and their families. Feedback from group members is reported and the practical issues in providing such groups discussed.