The Difference Evidence-Based Parenting Programs Can Make

Parenting children with big, baffling behaviors is hard! Are you ready to laugh more and yell less? Read on to learn how an evidence-based parenting program can help! 

What Is An Evidence-Based Parenting Program?

Evidence-based parenting programs focus on research-backed strategies that promote positive parenting practices, improve your relationship with your child, and result in positive outcomes for your whole family. Practitioners use their experience and expertise to share available scientific evidence that best aligns with your values and needs.

Your child didn't come with an instruction manual. When they face emotional or behavioral struggles, you may feel frustrated that you don’t know how best to help them. Searching online or at your local bookstore might lead you to some resources, but how do you know who to trust?

With an evidence-based parenting program, you can rest assured the professionals have read the latest research and continue to learn best practices. They can then share their findings with you so you can directly apply the research to help your family. 

Different Forms of Evidence-Based Parenting Programs

No two families are the same, but each family wants help that meets their needs, works with their schedule, and fits their budget. Thankfully, there are a variety of evidence-based parenting programs to choose from. 

• Parent/Child Realtime Coaching - Your coach offers real-time education and support at your home or on an outing.  If you prefer to receive feedback in a natural environment or learn better in the moment, this short-term intervention may be for you. If you need more structure or support, you can add Theraplay™ inspired sessions or one-on-one virtual parent coaching.
• Parent Coaching - Like a sports coach, the parent coach’s job is to motivate and guide you. Choose the format that best suits your needs.
• One-on-One - Meet with your coach in person or virtually for customized support. 
• Group - Learn and grow with a community of parents facing similar struggles. Meet with your coach and group in person or virtually for more generalized support.
• Workshop - This is an excellent option for parents who want to learn more about a specific topic. Learn with a group of parents who share your interest in the subject in a single in-person or virtual session.  

Seeking the support of a parent coach is one of the most significant decisions you can make for your family’s well-being and happiness. Evidence-based parenting programs are an investment in yourself, your child, and your family. There are several formats and options to meet you where you’re at.

Common Elements of Evidence-Based Parenting Programs

There are so many "parenting experts" out there. How can you know which voices to listen to?

Your evidence-based parenting coach can help! They have the training and expertise to assess and guide you on your parenting journey. 

They will help you identify what matters most to you as a person and parent. They will educate you on the research-backed strategies best for you and your child. They will support you and help you feel more confident and competent. And if you want to continue your learning outside of the coaching program, they can point you to vetted resources.

What You Can Expect From Evidence-Based Parenting Programs

“The days are long but the years are short.” When you’re in the thick of parenting, it’s easy to get caught up in the day-to-day and lose track of the big dreams you have for your children and family.

Your evidence-based parent coach will use conversation to help you discover (again or for the first time) what it is you want for yourself and your family. Your coach will know what would be most helpful and relevant to you by asking questions and listening deeply. From there, they will help you implement evidence-based strategies so you can grow in your parenting.  

Research proves that evidence-based parenting practices improve parent-child relationships and reduce problem behaviors. While each program and coach may have their own unique approach, you can expect them to promote positive parenting practices like these:

• Setting clear expectations for behavior
• Providing positive reinforcement
• Teaching effective communication skills
• Creating a nurturing and supportive home environment

By incorporating these strategies, you can develop stronger bonds with your child and foster their emotional and behavioral development.

Benefits of Evidence-Based Parenting Programs

“It takes a village to raise a child” is a proverb for a reason. Add a parent coach to your “village” and connect yourself to evidence-based support. Together, you can develop the secure, caring environment your child needs to thrive.

What you learn in evidence-based parenting programs will help more than just you. The strategies will benefit your child and your relationship with them. 

• You - You’ll be empowered with the skills and techniques to communicate effectively, set boundaries, and resolve conflicts. Increase your self-confidence. Improve your communication and problem-solving skills. Gain a deeper understanding of child development.
• Your Child - A nurturing, healthy relationship with you is a solid foundation for their future relationships. Having a safe, supportive environment will help them grow and succeed.
• Parent/Child Relationship - Less yelling, more laughter! Your interactions are transformed into moments of affection and trust. 

An Evidence-Based Parenting Coach You Can Count On

If we haven’t met me yet, I’m Sarah Salisott, the Founder and Owner of The Foster Lane Parent Coaching.

And I want you to know I’ve been where you are. I’ve experienced the tension and frustration you’re facing now. As a level 4 licensed foster parent, I fostered numerous teenage girls facing mental health struggles. My parenting partner and I have distinctly different parenting styles, which really came to the forefront as we fostered our children. 

To help get us through this and grow as individuals and a family, I put my learning cap on. I studied evidence-based parenting, completing my certification through the Parenting Coaching Institute® and beginning initial training in Theraplay®.

I apply what I learned with my own family. That’s how I know evidence-based parenting strategies will help you and your child too.

I strongly encourage you to seek the support and resources you need to create the nurturing and affirming environment your child needs to thrive. They’re out there if you know where to look (and have a parenting coach in your corner).

With my experience and training as a certified parent coach, I can provide you with the support you need to get through the challenges ahead. Learn more about how we can work together at https://www.thefosterlane.com/. Together, we can create a future where your child feels valued, accepted, and loved for who they are.