‘A Big Door Opened for Us’: Parents' Perceptions of Comprehensive Preschool

Abstract

This qualitative research study was designed to explore the perceptions of parents with low income regarding the effects of involvement in a comprehensive preschool program on their children's development and on the families' quality of life. A purposeful sample of parents who became actively involved in the preschool community was interviewed about their experiences and the experiences of their children. These interviews were analyzed using the constant comparative method for emerging themes related to their experiences of the preschool. Parents' perspectives provided important insights into the processes that influence what they identified as positive outcomes. These insights, all connected to a larger theme of empowerment, included: (1) replacing isolation with affiliation, (2) increased self-confidence, (3) enhanced opportunity and ability to set goals and develop skills that promote self-sufficiency and goal attainment, and (4) empowering parents to empower their children through positive parenting. The evidence suggests that preschool structures and processes can enhance the development of the whole family by serving as a support system, and by nurturing relationships that are at the core of academic success. The study contributes to the research base on the effects of comprehensive preschool approaches to support families living in poverty.

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