A new Qualitative Investigation exploring the experiences of parents attending the Parents Plus ADHD Children’s Programme was recently published in the July issues of the Child Care in Practice journal.
The study interviewed 15 parents who had attended the programme, and identified six central themes:
- Support from attending the programme
- Learning experiences for parents
- Parental outcomes
- Online versus in-person delivery
- Access to resources and services
- Programme recommendations
The study sought to gain feedback on parental experience of the programme, to determine the overall outcomes of attending the programme, and to determine changes that may improve the programme in the future.
Parents spoke of support they received from facilitators and from fellow parents both during and after the programme.
I would be talking to friends and explaining my day-to-day, and they would be like “Ah ya, it can’t be that bad”, but when you’re actually chatting to other parents of
kids with ADHD, they just get you, they get your life, so you just feel really supported.
Parents discussed how they learned more about ADHD itself and had the opportunity to develop their own skills and confidence.
I would have had no confidence in helping her, and I have definitely gained a lot of confidence, and now I know when I’m struggling, I know where to go look for help.
In discussing the delivery of the programme online vs. in-person, there were found to be pros and cons with both options. Parents who attended the programme online showed an interest in a hybrid delivery and noted the importance of breakout rooms to chat in more depth with other participants. While participating online made the programme more accessible, particularly for those in rural areas or who find it difficult to get a babysitter, parents also mentioned challenges in having children at home with them while they attend and a desire to connect with other parents face-to-face.
I much prefer in person myself. I find zoom I look around the room more than I would if I’m in face to face with someone. It’s easier to open up than if it is online.
When asked for recommendations to improve the programme, suggestions included making the programme longer, to delve into certain topics in more detail and to share more information and resources on accessing diagnosis and services.
Other parents were sharing information, but I think that would be beneficial as well about the whole diagnosis and treatment system in Ireland. To have someone come in, a professional who knows that side of it.
For more insights into the experiences of parents who participated, ‘A Qualitative Investigation into the Parental Experiences of an Online and In-Person Programme for Parents of Children with ADHD; Aged 6–12‘, is available to read in full online here.
Reference:
Lally, L., McGrattan, L., O’Connor, M., O’Regan, C., Gavin, B., Brosnan, E., & Sharry, J. (2026). A Qualitative Investigation into the Parental Experiences of an Online and In-Person Programme for Parents of Children with ADHD; Aged 6–12. Child Care in Practice, 1-18. https://doi.org/10.1080/13575279.2026.2700703