This report summarises the research evidence on protective factors for parent and child wellbeing in the early years (pre-birth to when children are 5 years old), including programs and interventions that support families.

It focuses on research exploring the factors that support parents to meet the needs of their children. It covers child outcomes in so far as they are associated with parent outcomes. The report is based on evidence published in Australia and similar countries (the United Kingdom, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, New Zealand, Germany and Ireland) between 2018 and 2025.

Key points

• Most studies focused on general populations or families with parents (often mothers) experiencing mental health challenges or children with behavioural or developmental challenges. 
• Research showed that programs and interventions for pregnant women, early intervention programs, parenting programs, parent wellbeing programs and parent-mediated interventions in the early years can be effective in improving a range of child, parent and family outcomes. 
• The research has mainly focused on parental mental health and wellbeing, parenting self-efficacy, parenting confidence and the parent–child relationship.
• Positive parenting practices and supportive parent relationships emerged as important protective factors for parent and child outcomes. Family and social supports (including community supports) also positively contributed to parent wellbeing.