Employment, Social Affairs & Inclusion

Germany, 2009 - Still operating

‘Join the Healthy Boat – Primary School’ is a school-based intervention targeting children in grades 1 to 4 (ages 6-10). The intervention was designed, implemented, and evaluated by a research group at Ulm University from 2010 to 2011, in collaboration with schools across the region of Baden-Württemberg in Germany. It is delivered by trained teachers throughout the academic year as part of the existing school curriculum, and consists of face-to-face classroom modules, guided physical activities during recess, and media-based homework assignments to be completed with parents in the children’s homes. The intervention aims to prevent childhood obesity by educating children on the risks of unhealthy leisure and eating habits, as well as informing them of the various foods, drinks, and recreational activities that are consistent with a healthier and more active lifestyle.

Evidence level:  Emergent Practice

Ireland, 2010 - Still operating

The ECCE scheme provides early childhood care and education to eligible pre-school children in the Republic of Ireland, completely free of charge. This study analyses determinants of child outcomes for a cohort of children who participated in the scheme during the 2012-2013 school year. A ‘before and after approach’ was taken, which assessed the children’s social, emotional, language and cognitive skills.

Evidence level:  Emergent Practice

Romania, 2009 - 2009

Social-Emotional Prevention (SEP) is a multifaceted practice (including children, parents and teachers) aimed at improving social and emotional competencies. It is a hybrid programme, combining the delivery of targeted (for high risk children) and universal (for all children) elements within the prevention programme. This group-based programme comprises three components: a classroom curriculum, teacher training and parent training. The evidence of its effectiveness comes from a trial implemented in Romania.

Evidence level:  Emergent Practice

United Kingdom, 2010 - 2012

'Parenting UR Teen' is a group-based parenting programme that aims to enhance family relationships, parental wellbeing and teen social functioning by promoting authoritative parenting style. The programme built on previous research findings suggesting that authoritative parenting practices, such as use of firm control and rational discipline, are associated with a number of positive outcomes: for example, better school performance, less delinquent behavior and enhanced emotional and social competence. The programme was delivered in eight weeks and incorporated weekly sessions on various topics including: parenting styles, teen development, self-esteem, conflict, problem solving. Evidence on the effectiveness of the 'Parenting UR Teen’ programme comes from one randomised controlled study that was run in Northern Ireland with 145 parents from a wide range of economic backgrounds. The evaluation results indicate that the programme is beneficial for parents in terms of improved overall well-being and that it also had positive impact on their child’s behavior and their family functioning as a whole.

Evidence level:  Emergent Practice

United Kingdom, 2012 - Still operating

Parents under Pressure (PuP) is a programme for parents who face multiple adversities, including dependence on psychoactive drugs or alcohol. PuP contains 12 modules delivered over 20 weeks, including one-to-one sessions with the PUP therapist at family’s home and additional support, e.g., housing or legal advice, based on family needs. PuP aims to develop a safe and nurturing relationship between child and caregiver and thus reduce likelihood of child abuse.

Evidence level:  Promising Practice