Effects of home-based early intervention on child outcomes: A randomized controlled trial of Parents as Teachers in Switzerland

Abstract

This randomized controlled trial examined the effectiveness of the Parents as Teachers (PAT) program in the German-speaking part of Switzerland. During the first three years after birth, 132 at-risk families with new-born children were supported by PAT with regular home visits and group connections. The 116 families in the control group had access to the normal community services, but were not supported by PAT. Baseline data and annual outcome data on health, adaptive behavior, developmental status, cognitive skills, language skills, motor skills, problem behavior, and effortful control were collected. As shown by Generalized Estimating Equations, PAT improved children’s adaptive behavior, developmental status, and language skills at the age of 3 years. Problem behavior was reduced in families with the highest risk. The results are discussed in the light of Bronfenbrenner’s bioecological model.