Background: Parent-mediated interventions (PMI) can be effective for children with neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD), bridging the gap in clinical health service access by facilitating treatment in a child’s natural environment. Previous research has examined the clinical outcomes of these interventions; however, the characteristics of effective PMI for children with NDD living in rural, regional and remote (RRR) communities have not been systematically identified. 

Aims: To identify characteristics of effective PMI for parents of children with NDD residing in RRR communities. 

Method: A systematic review of PMI for children with NDD living in RRR communities was conducted. Five databases were searched. Articles published between January 2013 and March 2024 and written in English were included. 

Results: The initial search identified 737 articles; 32 articles were included in the final analysis. The research methodologies included qualitative, randomised control trials, quasi-experimental and case reports. The studies were conducted in 11 countries (Ethiopia, United States, Canada, Kenya, Italy, South Africa, Australia, Pakistan, Iceland, Cambodia and Bangladesh) and involved a total of 2,115 children, caregivers, siblings, practitioners and community members. The interventions targeted skills including children’s behaviour, language development, motor skills and parental stress, confidence and capabilities. Characteristics that contributed to effective PMI included mixed methods of delivery, flexible delivery schedule/duration, positive relationships with practitioners and delivery in a child’s natural environment. 

Conclusions: Professionals working with children with NDD and their families who live in RRR communities should integrate the key characteristics identified into PMI to ensure effectiveness and positive outcomes.

Implications for children and families: PMI can be effective in providing you and your children with appropriate support and therapy. These interventions can be effectively delivered to RRR communities. 

Implications for practitioners: When planning and delivering PMI for children with NDD in RRR communities, you must understand and integrate evidence-informed characteristics to ensure effective outcomes. 

Key words: parent-mediated intervention, neurodevelopmental disorders, regional/rural communities, systematic review

This presentation relates to the following United Nations Sustainable Development Goals:

• SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities