Observation and evaluation of professionals in support programs early childhood parenthood: process of an instrument

Abstract

The European Commission recommends designing policies to support parents in the exercise of parenting and provides guidelines for professional of support programs and family intervention. The article presents the process of developing an instrument designed for the observation and evaluation of professionals of Social Work involved in those programs serving families in early childhood. From the review of theoretical models and a process of discussion with practitioners the paper described the construction process and the structure of the instrument. The items of the instrument are organized into three sections: the organization of context, intervention in dyads father / mother, son / daughter and group activities aimed at families. In turn each of these sections includes various dimensions. The development of the instrument shows that it is essential to develop tools that help to promote reflection and professional assessment for interventions tailored to ensure the effectiveness of parental involvement programs.