Integrated recreational programs designed to support neurodiverse children and their families are important vehicles for community participation. In this mixed-methods study, we investigated the mechanisms by which parent–child music classes for autistic and neurotypical children can support community participation. Parents of autistic (n = 33) and typically developing (TD; n = 28) preschoolers were interviewed about their expectations for and experiences of participating in a 12-week psychoeducational parent–child music program. Parents completed ratings of momentary affect and social connection, and researchers coded children's behavioral engagement during classes at multiple time points throughout the program. Primary motivations for enrolling in an integrated music class included children's interest in music and opportunities for child socialization. Parent-focused reasons were less frequently endorsed as primary motivations for participation. Yet, momentary ratings indicated that music classes supported parents’ affect regulation and social connection with other parents at the level of individual classes and across the program. These in-class experiences were echoed by interviews following program completion, which additionally highlighted the use of new parenting strategies through the musical activities. Since parental emotional experiences of activities, supportive community relationships, and parenting confidence are all linked with increased community participation, integrated music classes may support participation and satisfaction with community experiences.

中文翻译：

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有和没有自闭症的学龄前儿童的综合亲子音乐课程：父母的期望和经验

旨在支持神经多样性儿童及其家庭的综合娱乐项目是社区参与的重要工具。在这项混合方法研究中，我们调查了自闭症和神经正常儿童的亲子音乐课程可以支持社区参与的机制。自闭症 ( n = 33) 和典型发育障碍 (TD; n= 28) 学龄前儿童接受了关于他们对参加为期 12 周的心理教育亲子音乐计划的期望和体验的采访。父母完成了对瞬间影响和社会联系的评级，研究人员在整个项目的多个时间点对孩子在课堂上的行为参与进行了编码。参加综合音乐课程的主要动机包括儿童对音乐的兴趣和儿童社会化的机会。以家长为中心的原因很少被认可为参与的主要动机。然而，瞬时收视率表明，音乐课在个别班级和整个项目中支持父母的情感调节和与其他父母的社会联系。这些课堂体验在项目完成后的采访中得到了回应，这进一步强调了通过音乐活动使用新的育儿策略。由于父母对活动的情感体验、支持性的社区关系和为人父母的信心都与社区参与的增加有关，综合音乐课程可以支持社区体验的参与和满意度。