Services for pre-school children with behaviour problems in a Midlands city

Area of Science:

• Child Psychology
• Public Health Services
• Early Intervention Programs

Background:

• Pre-school children with behaviour problems require specialized services.
• Coordination among service providers is crucial for effective intervention.
• Existing services in a Midlands city were assessed for their structure and collaboration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine services for pre-school children with behaviour problems.
• To evaluate the level of coordination and cooperation among service providers.
• To identify gaps in training and support for service providers.

Main Methods:

• A survey of health visitors and interviews with service providers across different agencies were conducted.
• Data collected included service offerings, theoretical basis, referrals, and inter-agency coordination.
• Qualitative data analysis identified themes in service content and process, with frequency estimations for provider groups.

Main Results:

• Health visitors and nursery nurses are primary contacts, yet many nursery nurses lack specific training.
• Most providers use evidence-based programs but modify them, often using a mix of materials.
• Despite claimed knowledge of other providers, there was limited evidence of actual coordination within and between agencies.

Conclusions:

• Active service provision exists, but key providers need better preparation and support.
• A significant lack of coordination within and between services was observed.
• Surveys are vital for establishing coordinated services for primary and secondary prevention of pre-school behaviour problems.