Promoting Resilience Through Parenting Programs for Young Children

Abstract

Improving parenting is an effective way to develop a resilient child. Positive parenting helps increase autonomy, social competence, sense of self, sense of purpose, and problem-solving skills, which are traits found in resilient children. Few parenting programs are specifically tailored for children five or younger, are preventive, nor promote resilience. This study compared what factors experts in the mental health field identified that help promote resilience, increase parental involvement and reduce attrition in treatment. A mixed methods survey was administered to nine experts with a follow-up phone interview to gather qualitative data and clarify responses. Therapists reported that capacity to adapt, being resourceful, being optimistic, having a sense of self, and empathy towards others were traits found in resilient children. To promote resilience, therapists used psycho-education, play, and homework when working with parents. When working with children, therapists used play, art therapy and sand tray activities to promote resilience. It was found that while most therapists were trained in an EBP parenting program, they were not commonly used for treatment. These experts reported that scheduling conflicts and costs influenced whether families continued in treatment; families who had access to transportation, participated in group therapy and were engaged to lead a group, were more likely to complete treatment. Furthermore, therapists reported that most of their clients were Caucasian, African-American and Hispanic and that they adapted the physical appearance of visuals and how they communicate the interventions to each family to ensure cultural sensitivity.