This RCT evaluated a live, online, group-based parenting program ('Cool Little Kids', Dutch adaptation) vs. a control condition (general parenting advice book) for preventing anxiety in behaviorally inhibited children aged 3–6 years (N=148; analyzed n=128), with follow-up at 6 and 12 months.
Parents in the intervention group reported lower child anxiety symptoms at post-intervention (d=−0.35), 6-month (d=−0.46), and 12-month follow-up (d=−0.31); the 12-month difference was no longer statistically significant, though effect sizes remained clinically comparable to earlier time points.
- The 12-month follow-up result was non-significant, possibly due to the study being underpowered to detect smaller effects at that time point. - The active control condition (parenting advice book) showed gradual improvement over time, narrowing the between-group gap. - Full text was not accessible; findings are based solely on the abstract.
A live, online, group-based parent program can meaningfully reduce anxiety symptoms in young, behaviorally inhibited children, with effects sustained up to 12 months. Clinicians working in public or mental health settings should consider this scalable delivery format as a viable early prevention option.
