Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explore the parenting experiences of mothers of disabled children. The study focused on how mothers of disabled children prepared for their children's transition to elementary school and how they experienced their children's adjustment to school. Twenty mothers of children with developmental or intellectual disabilities participated in the study. Each mother had experienced an inclusive education program at an elementary school for more than a year. Twelve mothers have children with intellectual disabilities and eight have children with developmental disabilities. Individual in-depth interviews were carried out to collect qualitative data. To analyze the data, the research followed the phenomenological analysis method of Giorgi. The results showed that mothers of disabled children were actively involved with inclusive day care centers and therapy programs to prepare for children elementary school. Most wished to send their children to a general elementary school with an inclusive program, although decision making was not easy. When their children entered elementary school, some mothers observed their children's struggle with school and their peer relationships. They sought support from teachers and other mothers. These mothers showed a desire for their children's social independence. This study highlighted the necessity to develop support programs for disabled children and their mothers.