Students What Should Be Minded When Families With Disabled Children Are Planning A Summer Vacation?

Abstract

Introduction: Many people with disabled children living in Turkey are affected by psychological, sociological, economic and emotional disabilities due to their children’s disabilities. In this respect, the well-planned free time periods outside of the training period give children with disabilities the freedom to move freely. Aim: In this research, it is aimed to investigate what matters to pay attention to when planning vacation for children with disabilities. Method: A structured interview form with 34 items was prepared in order to plan summer vacation about families with disabled children in the research. The field survey was conducted and interview questions and the content of the survey were generated. In Mersin province, private rehabilitation was discussed individually with 136 volunteer mothers in the training and application centers for the disabled. With the prepared questions, it was tried to investigate the expectations of the expectant mothers who have children with disabilities while planning a summer holiday. Results: According to the interview data, it was observed that the mothers were more difficult to construct the holiday content, but showed more protective behavior tendencies. According to the information provided, it is stated that the children who take part in the mothers’ tours will take care of the age groups, the girls and boys separately and the importance of accompanying specialists, educators, health personnel and caring individuals. The different types of obstacles and accompanying diseases of each child are the other issues that are emphasized. Other information reported by the family includes information about eating and sleeping habits, special behaviors, favorite toys, drugs used, fears, allergic conditions, underbelly, and being aggressive. Conclusion: It should be emphasized that When choosing a summer vacation program, it is important for families to consider the child’s age, interests and personality. It should also be considered how the holiday activities will support children’s learning throughout the year.