Parent Training for Parents of Toddlers Born Very Premature:

The ezParent Program is a 6-module web-based adaptation of the group-based Chicago Parent Program (CPP). ezParent uses multiple strategies to promote skill development in parents. Each module includes (a) video narrator descriptions of parenting strategies, (b) video vignettes of parents and children as examples of how parenting strategies work, (c) questions following each vignette for parents to reflect upon, (d) interactive activities for parents to complete, (e) knowledge questions to assess parent understanding of the strategies, and (f) practice assignments. To tailor to the former VPT population, developmental tips are included. Parents are instructed to complete the 6 modules over 10-weeks, approximately 1 module every 1.5 weeks. At the end of each module, parents receive a practice assignment linked to the module content. To encourage and support program completion, parents receive automated text messages and badges.

The purpose of the brief (\~15 min) telephone coaching calls is to provide parents with clarification of program content, encouragement and reinforcement of program completion, and support tailoring of intervention content (ezParent or Active Control)for their child. Coaching calls are guided by a semi-structured script aimed at supporting parent learning and motivation. Calls will be scheduled every week for 10 weeks. Each call will include an opportunity for parents to identify and discuss:(a) questions regarding the materials and content received in their respective groups,(b) identification of potential barriers and strategies to overcome barriers for completion of intervention (ezParent or control) content in their respective group, and (c)follow up on discussion points from previous calls. In both conditions, coaches will have access to a web-based usage portal to guide the discussion.

The active control is an adaptation of a web-based application developed in our previous study (R01-HS024273). The program will include general information typically provided during well-child or NICU follow up visits. Six topic areas are: Immunizations, Common Childhood Illnesses, Nutrition, Dental Health, and Indoor and Outdoor Injury Prevention/Safety. The program includes handouts, websites, and resources provided to parents of children in this age group. Parents will be instructed to review each topic over 10-weeks, approximately 1 topic every 1.5 weeks