Understanding the Perceptions of School Engagement of Parents of Students With Autism

Abstract

Family–school engagement is integral to the success of students with autism. However, limited research has examined the conceptualization of family–school engagement from the perspective of parents of children with autism. With this in mind, we conducted focus groups with 22 parents of school-age children (ages 3–21) with autism. Using qualitative analysis, the authors identified seven types of engagement, each of which requires specific supports and has different barriers that may limit their use. These included: (a) collaborative partnership, (b) home-school communication, (c) advocacy, (d) school-based participation, (e) home-based participation, (f) service coordination, and (g) classroom observation. Adding two novel types of family engagement to the existing literature, findings contribute to a conceptualization of school engagement that incorporates the preferences and experiences of diverse parents of children with autism. Implications and directions for future research are discussed.