The evaluation of the Mol an Óige common sense parenting programme

The Mol an Óige Common Sense Parenting (CSP) programme is a parent-training intervention. Its purpose is to teach parents practical and effective ways to enhance their parenting skills and strengthen their children’s potential and quality of life. First implemented in Co. Mayo and Co. Roscommon in 2009, CSP targets a mix of the general parent/guardian population and other at-risk groups. The programme has an interagency focus and operates under the guidance of a multidisciplinary steering committee. CSP is delivered by two trained facilitators in six weekly two-hour workshops to parents/guardians with children aged 6 to 16 years and in seven weekly two-hour workshops to those with children aged 2 to 5 years. This evaluation assessed the effectiveness of CSP for improving participant parenting, child behaviour and the quality of family relationships. Using a mixed method, quasi-experimental research design, the study evaluated CSP implementation processes and outcomes between January 2015 and June 2016. Outcome data was gathered from programme participants using a number of standardised research tools administered by CSP programme facilitators at pre-, post-programme and follow-up time points. Qualitative research data gathered in individual, group and focus group interviews with a range of CSP stakeholders provided process information and some outcome data. In addition, a CSP practitioner survey and a CSP Participant Evaluation Form provided a mix of quantitative and qualitative research data relating to the process of implementing CSP and the perceived outcomes of the programme. This research provides evidence of the success of the CSP programme in an Irish context. Both qualitative and quantitative findings suggest that core components of the programme involve both the teaching of effective parenting skills and the enhancement of participants’ confidence through the group process. The study found consistent positive changes, and changes maintained over time, on child behaviour and parenting and no significant negative changes. Statistically significant pre- and post-programme improvements in total scores were recorded in all four standardised research tools used to assess child behaviour and parenting styles and well-being. CSP is responding to a specific need for parenting and family support in Co. Mayo and Co. Roscommon. The programme equips participants with practical and effective skills which they can use to improve their parenting and family relationships. In addition, research evidence suggests that a partnership approach can be successful in the implementation of a programme that mixes universal and targeted parenting support, as significant success was enjoyed in engaging practitioners, recruiting parents and improving outcomes for children and families.