Evaluation of Intervention Program for Vulnerable Children and Their Families

Summary

The purpose of this project was to inform debate over early intervention programs for children and families. The project involved a rigorous study measuring the impact of a multiple intervention program over the long term on at-risk children and families in a Canadian context. Calgary Urban Projects Society (CUPS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping families overcome poverty. The CUPS intervention focuses on providing access to a broad range of supports and services, including counseling to prevent Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, prenatal and post-natal health services, parenting and life skills education, early childhood education, drop-in child care, teacher and social worker home visitation and a general health care clinic tailored to individual need.

Grant Outputs

CUPS One World Child Development Center: A Multiple Intervention Preschool Program for Children Living in Extreme Poverty –

This report summarizes the evaluation of the CUPS multiple intervention program after an initial two-year study. It reports on the progress of 50 children and 44 caregivers. Participant families faced a number of challenges, including drug use, extreme poverty, unstable housing, and low levels of educational attainment. The study shows clear improvements in student achievement through the effects of multiple intervention programming, but results varied based on culture and developmental status. The report recommends a focus on specific populations for future studies, in order to capture groups that would be most likely to benefit from multiple interventions programming.

CUPS One World Child Development Centre Caregiver Satisfaction Report 2005/06 –

This report summarizes the findings of a parent satisfaction survey delivered to participant families. The survey results generally reflect parent satisfaction. The report concludes that increasing parental participation may improve both parent and child outcomes, thereby increasing parent satisfaction with the program as they become more oriented and engaged in program delivery.

Effects of a Multiple Intervention Preschool program on 7- and 10-year-old Children and their Caregivers –

This project resulted in a follow-up research program tracking the school success of program participants over time.