Development of an Early Years Outcomes Framework and Implementation Plan Using Integrated Knowledge Translation

Abstract Tracking, measuring, and reporting outcomes fosters improvement and adoption of best practices. It enables identification of what is and is not working and can contribute towards greater effectiveness and efficiency in the delivery and engagement of programs and interventions. The early years of a child’s life significantly influence life-long health and wellbeing, learning and behaviour outcomes. Due to the complexity of parenting during the early years of a child’s life many parents and caregivers seek support and guidance to improve their parenting knowledge and confidence. In Victoria, Australia, Early Parenting Centres support families with their parenting practices through a range of programs. Evidence of the impact of Early Parenting Centres programs has been limited with minimal data collected focusing on the outcomes of Early Parenting Centres program involvement and delivery. To gain a detailed understanding of the impact of Early Parenting Centres programs the development of a Victorian Early Parenting Centres Outcomes Framework was commissioned. This paper provides a methodological roadmap for Outcomes Framework and Implementation Plan development which is underpinned by co-creating Knowledge Translation Framework and Integrated Knowledge Translation and exchange approaches. Steps one to three of the co-creating Knowledge Translation Framework were utilised and resulted in the development of an Outcomes Framework and Implementation Plan for the Victorian Early Parenting Centres sector. Additionally, this blueprint of outcomes framework development addresses a significant gap in the literature—the lack of guidance, research, and clarity in developing an Outcomes Framework for Early Parenting Centres.