Suggests eight questions that can serve as a framework for determining the extent to which early intervention has accomplished the goals inherent in a family-centered approach. Conceptual issues and methodological considerations associated with documenting these outcomes are presented and recommendations regarding implementation and future…

A short, 2-day, seminar-style program designed for adults with chronic aphasia and their families is described. Six-month follow-up data from 21 participant pairs found a significant improvement in functional activity level, improved knowledge of aphasia, and improved family relationships. Nonparticipant pairs (n=15) did not show any changes.…

Explored the inter-professional collaborative experiences of professionals working with children and their families in two areas of high social need. Found that although the way professionals conceptualize their practice may hinder effective collaboration, a complex interplay of several factors is involved. Constructed a typology of various…

Examined whether intervention provided to low-income parents of firstborn children produced delayed benefits for later children by studying younger siblings of children in a family-support program. Found that intervention group siblings had better school attendance, were less likely to need remedial services, and were more likely to be making…

Provides step-by-step guidance on planning and implementing effective, site-based intensive family preservation program research and evaluations. Discusses research processes and describes appropriate research designs and methodologies. Considers issues in collaborating with university researchers and other stakeholders in the process. (JPB)

Schools in Los Angeles County, Chattanooga, Boston, and San Diego have established family centers offering space (a room, bus, or neighborhood apartment) where family members can meet with parent leaders and school staff to plan and implement programs and partnerships. Varied purposes, activities, funding, and staffing are discussed. (MLH)

The Family Support Opportunities program is a Washington state program that connects individuals with extensive knowledge of local communities (community guides) with families of individuals with intellectual disabilities. A survey of 312 families found that when families indicated satisfaction with their community guides, they also reported a…

This study examined the extent to which staff from 40 Early Head Start programs in six Midwestern states believed in and were able to implement six aspects of family-centered practice. Results indicated staff experienced difficulty in implementing family-centered practice and that the extent of staff beliefs and implementation were affected by…

Examines U. S. research on child-welfare outcomes, focusing on family preservation, out-of-home care, and family reunification services. Highlights the range of mixed findings and discusses methodological issues and constraints. Maintains that future outcomes research should complement the use of rigorous quantitative methods with careful…

Considers the requirements of the Children Act (1989) in Great Britain and the use of "Looking After Children" materials in assessing the progress of children in out-of-home care. Demonstrates how simple indicators in the key areas of needs, objectives, services, and outcomes can be used to develop answers to complex questions regarding…

Problems experienced by youth with emotional and behavioral disorders (EBD) exact enormous toll on themselves, families and communities. Authors discuss three mental health initiatives for EBD youth, consisting of school-based practices, individualized care, stakeholder collaboration, intensive service coordination, and family-centered services.…

Discusses strategies for promoting emotional health in young children and in their parents. Offers suggestions for building care environments that enhance emotional health, strategies to support parents prior to and during the preschool years, and suggestions for addressing barriers to implementing the strategies in the early childhood setting and…

Participants of family preservation and family support programs (n=1601) were followed over time for future child maltreatment events. A total of 198 had at least one defined failure event over 1.6 years. Program designed to help families meet basic needs and programs using mentoring approaches were more effective. (Contains references.)…

The purpose of this study was to examine the involvement of young fathers with their children at entry to a fatherhood program and at subsequent follow-up. Thirty-eight young fathers participated in this analysis. Using open-ended questions at intake and subsequent follow-up, they were asked to describe in their own words their relationships with…

The Family-Centered Preschool Model is a family support model for center-based preschool programs. The model utilizes family consultants-parents of children with disabilities-to augment the support provided by classroom professionals. Family consultants coordinate and facilitate formal and informal family supports, maintain a close liaison with…