Creating Avenues for Parent Partnership (CAPP): An intervention for parents of children with epilepsy and learning problems

Caregivers of children with both epilepsy and learning problems need assistance to manage their child's complex medical and mental health problems. We tested the cognitive behavioral intervention “Creating Avenues for Parent Partnership” (CAPP) which was designed to help caregivers develop knowledge as well as the confidence and skills to manage their child's condition. The CAPP intervention consisted of a one-day cognitive behavioral program and three follow-up group sessions. The sample comprised 31 primary caregivers. Caregivers reported that the program was useful (mean = 3.66 on a 4-point scale), acceptable (mean = 4.28 on a 5-point scale), and “pretty easy” (mean = 1.97 on a 4-point scale). Effect sizes were small to medium in paired t tests (comparison of intervention to control) and paired analysis of key variables in the pre- and post-tests. The CAPP program shows promise in helping caregivers build skills to manage their child's condition.

► CAPP helps parents of children with epilepsy and low IQ address epilepsy management issues. ► Parents found the intervention to be both feasible and useful. ► Effect sizes were small to medium. ► Impact of child's illness on family emotions improved. ► The CAPP program helps caregivers build skills to manage their child's illness.