Prevention and Early Intervention for Middle Childhood
A national scoping study of prevention, early intervention and family support for children aged 6–12.
- Service
- Research
- Commissioned by
- Tusla – Child and Family Agency, Ireland
About the project
EduRelate conducted a national scoping study for Tusla examining prevention, early intervention and family support for children aged 6–12 years in Ireland. The research explored the policy and service landscape, the needs of children and families during middle childhood, and international evidence on effective and promising approaches.
The mixed-methods design combined a structured review of academic and grey literature, analysis of Irish policy and service provision, a national survey of 189 professionals across 22 regions, focus groups and expert interviews. Evidence from these strands was integrated to identify system strengths, gaps and opportunities for development.
The study identified middle childhood as a comparatively underdeveloped area within prevention and early intervention. While Ireland has an established policy and service infrastructure, provision can be fragmented and uneven, with challenges relating to access, coordination, mental health and wellbeing, family pressures, inclusion and geographical variation.
The study recommended a stronger strategic focus on children aged 6–12, improved coordination across family, school, health and community services, clearer and more accessible pathways to early support, and greater use of evidence, outcomes data and evaluation. It also identified opportunities to adapt and pilot promising evidence-informed interventions within the Irish context.