Pandemic Perils and Promise: Implementation of a Virtual Parenting Intervention during COVID-19 among Children with Early Neurological Conditions.

Abstract

Objective: In this study, we examined feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of a telepsychological positive parenting intervention (I-InTERACT-North, Internet-basedInteracting Together Everyday: Recovery After Childhood Traumatic Brain Injury) during the COVID-19 pandemic among Canadian families of children at-risk for neurodevelopmental challenges given congenital or neonatal conditions. I-InTERACT-North was developed to improve behavioral and emotional outcomes in children with neurological conditions by utilizing and adapting parenting strategies from several established family-focused programmes.

Methods: A pragmatic prospective pre-post single-site pilot study design was used to assess feasibility, acceptabilty, and preliminary efficacy of I-InTERACT North during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results: Thirty-five families of children ages three to nine years were referred between March 2020 and January 2021. Eighteen families enrolled, and 12 (67% adherence) completed the programme. Parents reported strong therapeutic alliance and programme acceptability with barriers due to competing time demands. Therapists reported high acceptability but perceived parental burnout. Parenting confidence (d = 0.70), and child behavior (d = 1.30) improved following the intervention.

Conclusions: Results demonstrate the programme's value to families during the pandemic, while underscoring unique participation barriers. Future research and clinicial implications are discussed.