Satisfaction and Desire for Change in Educational Placement for Children with Down Syndrome

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Abstract
This study surveyed 291 parents of children with Down syndrome about their satisfaction with their child's current educational program, as well as their desire and reasons for considering change. Perceptions were compared across age, current educational placement, ethnicity, and mother's educational level. Parents of younger children, children currently enrolled in both early intervention and general education, and mothers with an education beyond a bachelor's degree were more satisfied with their children's current programs. Parents of children in general education were least likely to want a program change. Wanting change centered on seven themes: the approach of a school transition point, the desire for greater inclusion, placement in a neighborhood school, the need for additional services and support, influences of peers, parents' financial resources, and ongoing information acquisition/decision-making issues.