Improving well-being for caregivers and young children in Native communities

Wa'Kan Ye'Zah: Enhancing caregivers' and children's well-being through an evidence-based and culturally informed prevention intervention

['FUNDING_R01'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-10546481

This study is testing a supportive program called 'Wa' Kan ye' zah' to help caregivers and their young children in Native communities feel better and thrive by reducing stress and improving parenting skills over 12 weeks of friendly lessons.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorJOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10546481 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing the well-being of caregivers and their young children through a culturally informed intervention called 'Wa' Kan ye' zah.' The program aims to reduce symptoms of historical trauma and everyday stress among caregivers while improving parenting skills and children's emotional and behavioral development. By integrating evidence-based practices like Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and culturally relevant training, the intervention seeks to break the cycle of trauma that affects families in Native communities. Participants will engage in 12 weekly lessons designed to foster positive outcomes for both caregivers and children.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux caregivers with children aged 3 to 5 years old.

Not a fit: Patients who do not belong to the Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux communities or whose children are outside the age range of 3 to 5 years may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental health and developmental outcomes for children and their caregivers, ultimately reducing risks for suicide and substance use.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success with similar culturally informed interventions aimed at improving mental health and developmental outcomes in Native communities.

Where this research is happening

BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.