Abstract
BackgroundInternet-based parenting programs have the potential to connect families to research-informed materials to promote positive child development. However, such programs can only succeed to the extent that the intended population engages with them.ObjectiveThis study aimed to evaluate engagement in the 5-a-Day Parenting program, a technology-based program designed with low-income families in mind, to promote daily use of 5 specific parenting activities conducive to children’s school readiness. Following earlier pilot data, the program was enhanced with an initial motivational e-intervention and tailored text messages designed to promote engagement.MethodsParents were recruited from local childcare centers and through a participant registry. We examined rates of receipt of program text messages and use of video-based content on the program website, 3 factors that may affect website use, and satisfaction with key program elements.ResultsA total of 360 parents of young children learned about the study and had the opportunity to use the 5-a-Day Parenting website. Of these, 94 parents participated in the study, and 33% (31/94) accessed the video-based content on the website at least once. No association was found between website use and program recruitment approach, program-affiliation message, sociocontextual risk, and baseline use of the five parenting activities. Satisfaction with text messages and video-based content was high.ConclusionsFor some parents, technology-based programs appear useful; however, engagement could still be enhanced. Additional research should seek innovative strategies for promoting engagement in Web-based parenting programs.
Highlights
Young children’s successful entry into school is closely associated with their social, emotional, cognitive, and academic readiness [1], each of which is strongly influenced by parenting and the home environment
JMIR Pediatr Parent 2019 | vol 2 | iss. 2 | e14518 | p. 3 second recruitment source was a registry consisting of the flier in the folder/text message they received had a link to Detroit-area parents of preschool-age children who had provided a subpage on the Consortium website with information about consent to be contacted about research opportunities
360 parents learned about the 5-a-Day Parenting program by receiving a folder at their Consortium-affiliated childcare center (n=229) or through receiving a text message from the registry (n=131)
Summary
Background Young children’s successful entry into school is closely associated with their social, emotional, cognitive, and academic readiness [1], each of which is strongly influenced by parenting and the home environment. Parental warmth promotes positive emotional development [2,3] and reduces children’s behavioral problems [4]. Stimulating home environments, conducive to language and book sharing, enhance children’s language development and early reading skills [5]. Internet-based parenting programs have the potential to connect families to research-informed materials to promote positive child development. Such programs can only succeed to the extent that the intended population engages with them
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