A new model to support preschool children's mental health through parenting programs

Parenting for Tomorrow: A New Model for Supporting Preschool Children's Mental Health in Head Start

Observational Johns Hopkins University · NCT06145477

This study is testing a new parenting program to see if it can help improve the mental health of preschool children from low-income families who are having behavior issues.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment160 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 99 Years
SexAll
SponsorJohns Hopkins University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Baltimore, Maryland)
Trial IDNCT06145477 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate an innovative model designed to enhance mental health services for preschool children from low-income communities by partnering with Head Start programs in Maryland. It will assess the efficacy, acceptability, accessibility, cost, and sustainability of a tailored parenting intervention based on the Chicago Parent Program. The approach includes adapting the program for individual families, embedding it within community agencies, and utilizing human-centered design to create a welcoming referral process. The target population includes children aged 2-5 years and their parents who express concerns about their child's behavior.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are parents of children aged 2-5 years enrolled in Head Start programs in Baltimore who are concerned about their child's behavior.

Not a fit: Parents who do not speak English or Spanish will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this model could significantly improve mental health support for young children in underserved communities.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success with similar parenting intervention approaches, indicating potential for positive outcomes.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Child is 2-5 years old, enrolled in Baltimore City Head Start (Baltimore City Mayor's Office on Child \& Family Success) or Head Start sites managed by Catholic Charities of MD
* parent expresses concern about the child's behavior or need for parenting support
* parent speaks English or Spanish
* Parent age 18-99 years
* Parent able to participate in virtual intervention sessions

Exclusion Criteria:

* Parent does not speak English or Spanish

Where this trial is running

Baltimore, Maryland

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions ParentingParenting InterventionChicago Parent ProgramCPPi
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.