New Zealand announces universal access to Triple P parenting programs

Triple P International today welcomed the New Zealand Government’s commitment to give Kiwi families free access to Triple P online parenting programs, thanks to generous funding from the Ministry of Health with support from Whāraurau as part of the COVID-19 public health initiative.

Triple P International Country Director – Australia, Carol Markie-Dadds said this funding gives families access to practical parenting tools to manage the ongoing anxiety and stress caused by the pandemic. This includes access to the new Fear-Less Triple P Online - a program specifically designed to help children and young people get on top of anxiety.

“In 2020/2021, almost six per cent of Kiwi children aged 2 to 14 years experienced emotional or behavioural problems, including diagnosed depression, anxiety disorders, and ADHD[1],” Ms Markie-Dadds said.

“In Australia, we know that this figure jumps to almost 14 per cent (1 in 7) of children aged 4 to 11 years who experience a mental disorder, with anxiety disorders being the second most common mental health problem experienced by children (and the most common in girls) after ADHD[2].

“We congratulate the New Zealand Ministry of Health for prioritising children’s mental health and wellbeing, and empowering parents and caregivers to play an integral part in shaping their child’s mental health outlook before issues can arise or escalate,” she said.

“Parents are a key part in the mental health puzzle and play an important role in helping their children learn how to manage the stress and anxiety of everyday life.

“We know that children thrive when parents are supported. With the right tools, parents can help their children develop emotional resilience and the skills needed to cope with whatever life brings in the future,” Ms Markie-Dadds said.

“The Triple - Positive Parenting Program® is an evidence-based program that has been delivering significant mental health and wellbeing outcomes for children and their families around the world for more than 40 years.

Online parenting programs are now available 24/7 across Australia and New Zealand and include Fear-Less Triple P Online, Triple P Online, and Teen Triple P Online, plus a guide to parenting during COVID-19. Access to these programs is free across New Zealand and in some Australian regions.