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Cool Kids

An Evidence-Based Practice

Description

The Cool Kids program applies cognitive behavior therapy to teach methods of managing their anxiety to children who have been diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. During the 10-week program, children learn a variety of skills, including linking thoughts and feelings, problem solving, self-rewarding, dealing with teasing, and being assertive. Parents also participate in the program to learn about different ways to interact with their children, and are given worksheets, summaries, and guides for helping their children practice behavioral techniques at home.

Goal / Mission

To teach children and parents how to manage anxiety disorders.

Results / Accomplishments

A study covering the three months after program conclusion found that the number of anxiety disorder diagnoses was significantly lower among children who participated in the Cool Kids program than both non-participants and participants in an alternative therapy program (Rapee et. al 2006). Another study, which followed participants for three years after completing the program, found that mothers of Cool Kids participants reported significantly fewer anxiety symptoms than mothers of other children in the study (p=0.008). Cool Kids participants self-reported fewer anxiety symptoms at 36 months as well, although the difference was not as statistically significant (p=0.051). (Hudson et. al 2008)

About this Promising Practice

Organization(s)
Macquarie University Centre for Emotional Health - Emotional Health Clinic
Primary Contact
Ron Rapee
Macquarie University Anxiety Research Unit
Department of Psychology
Macquarie University
Sydney, NSW. 2109
Ron.Rapee@mq.edu.au
http://www.centreforemotionalhealth.com.au/pages/e...
Topics
Health / Children's Health
Health / Mental Health & Mental Disorders
Organization(s)
Macquarie University Centre for Emotional Health - Emotional Health Clinic
Source
Child Trends
Date of publication
2010
Location
Australia
For more details
Target Audience
Children, Families
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