• Q: What is Triple P? Triple P suggests simple routines and small changes that can make a big difference to your family. It helps you understand the way your family works and uses the things you already say, think, feel and do in new ways that: o Create a stable, supportive and harmonious family. o Encourage behavior you like. o Deal positively, consistently and decisively with problem behavior. o Build positive relationships with your children, so that conflict can be resolved. o Plan ahead to avoid or manage potentially difficult situations. o Take care of yourself as a parent.

While Triple P is almost always successful in improving child behavior problems, more than half its emphasis is on developing positive attitudes, skills and behavior. This helps prevent problems arising and fosters family relationships that encourage children to realize their full potential. Triple P has been developed and scientifically proven over 30 years by The University of Queensland Parent and Family Support Centre, with international collaboration. The system is widely in use throughout Australia and increasingly, throughout the world.

The program is based on self-regulation. The goals are for children to develop emotional self-regulation and for parents to become resourceful, independent problem-solvers. As families determine their own particular goals, the program is tailored to suit their aspirations. Practitioners consult and guide through active skills training. Parents decide what they wish to take on.

The focus on prevention and the flexibility of Triple P’s delivery options make it a cost-effective program, offering only as much contact and assistance parents need. It also applies to a broad age range from birth to adolescence.

Triple P has been well-received by many different socio economic and cultural groups. All major validation studies have included high-risk, low-income families. Where mixed samples were used, socioeconomic status and parent education levels have not predicted outcome.

The parent materials are designed for the reading level of an average 11-year-old. Where literacy is a major difficulty, the program uses DVD's and behavior rehearsal so that it can be delivered without reading material.

People seek help with parenting for a number of reasons and for a variety of problems, ranging from day-to-day stress and relationship difficulties to more severe emotional and behavior problems. Problems can include,

o Infant problems such as persistent crying or sleeping difficulties
o Toddler concerns such as tantrums, non-compliance, or mealtime difficulties
o Preschool difficulties such as aggression, fears, nightmares, or bed-wetting
o Elementary school age problems such as bullying, low self-esteem, or homework difficulties
o Teenage behavior concerns such as dating, peer relationships, depression, or anxiety
o Problems specific to children with disabilities such as Attention Deficit Disorder, Asperger's Syndrome, or Downs Syndrome
o Assessment for learning difficulties or school adjustment problems
o Concerns with marital conflict or marriage separation
o Parental depression, anxiety, or stress