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Emotional literacy programme in special schools for children with a learning disability in England: the ZF-SEND
Biza Stenfert Kroese1, Gemma Unwin1, Richard Hastings2
1School of Psychology, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK.
This study explored the feasibility of a large-scale trial for an emotional literacy program for children with learning disabilities. While largely feasible, adjustments are needed for recruitment and data collection in special schools.
Area of Science:
- Child Psychology
- Special Education
- Mental Health Research
Background:
- Children with learning disabilities face higher risks of mental health issues due to inequalities and adverse events.
- Emotional literacy acts as a buffer against life stress, suggesting its importance for mental well-being.
- Adapted emotional literacy programs are needed for special schools to support vulnerable children.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility and acceptability of a large-scale randomized controlled trial (RCT) for an emotional literacy program in special schools.
- To evaluate the Zippy's Friends for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) program's suitability for children with learning disabilities.
- To gather quantitative and qualitative data on trial participation, data collection, and intervention delivery.
Main Methods:
- A feasibility cluster randomized controlled trial (RCT) involving 12 special schools.
- Recruitment of 96 pupils aged 9-11 years with learning disabilities for baseline and 12-month follow-up.
- Intervention group received the adapted Zippy's Friends SEND program; control group received usual practice.
Main Results:
- 8 schools and 53 pupils were recruited, meeting retention criteria (100% for schools and pupils).
- School recruitment (20.5%), pupil engagement (50%), and data collection (62.3%) partially met progression criteria.
- Intervention fidelity (48%) was below criteria, but overall feasibility and acceptability were largely met, supporting progression to a full trial with modifications.
Conclusions:
- A large-scale RCT is feasible with design amendments focusing on project timing, recruitment strategies, and data collection efficiency.
- The adapted Zippy's Friends SEND program shows promise for improving emotional literacy in children with learning disabilities.
- Further refinement of the study design is recommended before proceeding to a full-scale effectiveness trial.
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