Systematic literature review to explore the experience and impact group coaching has on parents of children with special educational needs and disabilities

This systematic literature review aims to critically review current research that explores the experience and impact of group coaching with parents of children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). The researchers used both search engines and hand searching to identify studies that met their inclusion criteria. Studies included in this review have used solution focused coaching approaches with parents of children with SEND in either a group or 1:1 capacity. They have also explored parents’ experience of the coaching intervention or its impact on stress or goal attainment. Three key themes have emerged, within this review: the mechanics of the coaching approaches used, the positive impact of parent-directed goals and parental wellbeing and empowerment. Current research emphasises the positive impact coaching can have on parents’ self-efficacy, confidence and motivation to action change. Parents are empowered by the opportunity to set their own goals and make suggestions about how to move forward. This not only has a positive impact on the family but also has the potential for wider community changes.