Increasing access to quality parent education through a virtual synchronous setting: A qualitative study

Abstract

Background: America's crisis of youth mental health challenges has been worsened by COVID-19. Group-based parent education has been proven effective in intervention and prevention; however, a lack of universal access and the busyness of parents are significant barriers to participation. Rapid growth in technology-based education aims to increase accessibility but live, virtual parent education was understudied. E3 Parent Education (E3PE) was a free, virtual, and synchronous group programme offered in Montana by a certified parent educator to support families navigating common and uncommon challenges. Methods: Through qualitative evaluation with eight programme participants (n = 8), this study aimed to understand impacts and access of this parent education programme. Results: All participants (100%) aligned on three themes describing the virtual, synchronous parent education experience: convenience, connection, and comfort. Participants suggested strategies for improvement as well. Discussion: A free, virtual, synchronous, group-based format provided equitable access and lowered the barriers to participation. Findings advised that the developers, facilitators, and policymakers consider adding virtual options alongside in-person settings to reduce participant barriers and meet the needs of different families.