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Sing&Grow

CfC FP ObjectiveSupporting families and parents 
Early learning and care
Delivered toAt-risk children aged 0 to 3 and their parents including families and children with a disability; Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander; young parents; children and parents involved with the child protection system; incarcerated mothers; families where substance abuse is present; refugee status; single parents; socially isolated parents; low socio-economic status. 
Delivered byTrained music therapists 
Delivery settingCommunity-based 
Program developerSing&Grow Australia, Playgroup Queensland 

About the program

The Sing&Grow program provides a learning and therapeutic opportunity for families through structured music-based activities which aim to support positive family relationships and build effective parenting skills. 

Program structure

Eight weekly 1-hour sessions are delivered in community settings and early childhood facilities. Other flexible service delivery options are also available according to community needs. 

Evaluation and effectiveness

Pre and post-design evaluation in 2012-13 found an increase in parents: 

  • knowledge of using music to support parenting (i.e. stimulate child development, manage behaviour, soothe and calm child)
  • confidence to use music with children
  • use of music with children in the home
  • general play or activities with children in the home
  • feelings of trust in support staff from collaborating agencies
  • knowledge of where to find, and confidence to seek future family support.

A national evaluation was conducted in 2019.

Quantitative stage – collected pre and post survey data from 318 parent participants. Findings included statistically significant improvements for: 

  • 2 parenting self-efficacy scales of discipline and play
  • parental use of music at home
  • children’s cognitive self-regulation.

Qualitative stage – collected interview data from 10 participants. The findings suggested that participation encouraged social connectedness through promoting inclusivity, belonging and confidence boosting. 

Positive relationships were evidenced by improved bonding, and stronger relationships. Parents believed the program educated them about child development, culturally accepted parenting and gave them parenting tools. Parents reported benefits for children included developing confidence, social skills, language and communication, motor skills and self-regulation.  

View more research resources on the Sing&Grow website.

Reference

Williams, K., Savage, S., & Nielson, C, (2019),  Sing&Grow Final Evaluation Report November 2019.  Queensland University of Technology, Australia. Retrieved from eprints.qut.edu.au/199656 

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