Caregivers and parents of children with disabilities face barriers to participation in spiritual settings and community events. Families accepted into church environments have been shown to have increased participation and quality of life. Through informal interviews with staff and family members within the congregation of Emmanuel Church analysis was compiled revealing a pressing need for an environment where families of children with a disability have an opportunity to experience spiritual growth, connection, and relief. To address these needs a Parents' Night Out event was created with specific activities and environments for parents of children with disabilities. The purpose of the event is to include an adapted environment and learning atmosphere based on the specific needs of the children and families to promote social, as well as, community participation and inclusion in spirituality. These events included adapted worship settings, flexible activities and one-on-one buddies to allow parents an evening to experience connection, relief, and spiritual development. Church staff were trained in the execution of the event and given examples and resources to create future events. Additional data is needed to draw conclusions regarding the statistical significance and community impact respite nights at churches can have for individuals with disabilities and their families.

Creator

• Mitchell, McKinzie

Contributors

• McGann, Taylor

Publisher

• University of Indianapolis

Language

• en

Identifier

• Mitchell_FINALPAPER.pdf

Keyword

• Occupational Therapy

Date created

• 2019-8

Resource type

• Dissertation

Source

• S47

Rights statement

• http://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC/1.0/