Effective prevention and early intervention is possibly the most promising strategy for
changing the trajectories of children. There is clear evidence that children’s life chances are
influenced by their families and communities and that they are able to be changed for the
better. Improving the wellbeing of children, young people and families at population-level
requires flexible and responsive systems that are equipped to deliver preventive
interventions and respond effectively early to emerging issues and challenges. There is a
strong and growing evidence-base that supports the effectiveness of many prevention and
early intervention programs and approaches, and consistent evidence about the features of
service systems that contribute to poorer outcomes.
This paper presents the findings of a rapid strategic literature review of prevention and early intervention programs and systems, with a specific focus on:
- Child development pathways and processes;
- The social and economic benefits of prevention and early intervention;
- Risk and protective factors for positive child development;
- Key pathways for intervention at key developmental stages (from antenatal through to adolescence); and
- System design elements that facilitate prevention and early intervention.
