An evaluation of lifestart, a universal home-based parenting programme in Ireland aimed at improving parent and child outcomes

This five-year randomised controlled trial explored the impact of the Lifestart home visiting parenting programme, on parent and child development outcomes. The Lifestart Programme is a universal and structured child-centred programme of information and practical activity for parents of children aged from birth to five years of age. In total, 424 parents and children participated, and outcomes were measured at pre-test (child age < 12 months), mid-point (age 3) and post-test (age 5). Compared to the control group, parents who received the Lifestart programme reported reduced parenting related stress, increased knowledge of their child's development and improved confidence in their parenting role. There was no evidence of any change in child development outcomes (i.e. cognitive, behavioural, social or emotional development) and there was no clear evidence of any consistent differential programme effects in relation either to gender, first time motherhood, high pre-test anxiety or low maternal education. The results are commensurate with findings from other evaluations of similar programmes and are aligned to the hypothesised theory of change. The study contributes to the limited knowledge on solely home visiting, universal parenting programmes on parent and child outcomes.