OBJECTIVE

This systematic review examined group based injury prevention interventions that targeted young children to determine the effectiveness of such strategies in enhancing children's safety behaviors.

METHODS

A comprehensive (manual and electronic) search of the literature was performed using the following study selection criteria: (1) intervention engaged children under the age of 6 years; (2) included a control group; (3) used a group intervention approach; (4) study written in English language; (5) addressed unintentional injuries; and (6) outcomes included injuries, knowledge, or safety behaviors. Data abstraction was performed independently by two researchers using a standardized approach.

RESULTS

Nine studies met the criteria that included safety interventions of road crossing (4), car restraint (2), spinal cord safety (1), poison safety (1), and 911/stranger danger/street crossing (1). The types of interventions included videos, interactive activities, cartoons, stories, puppets, singing, coloring, games, simulation games, demonstrations, modeling/role playing, and rehearsal practice using seat belts, models, and real street crossing. The intensity and duration of interventions varied substantially and only two studies randomly assigned participants. The review revealed a positive effect (knowledge, behaviour, and/or attitude) for five of the studies, three had mixed effect, and one reported no effect.

CONCLUSIONS

Although no clear conclusions can be drawn from the limited number of studies of diverse design and rigor, researchers should attempt to minimize shortcomings occurring in community based research. Engaging community partners including teachers and parents who influence relationships and outcomes could provide opportunity for more rigorous, comprehensive, and integrated approach to longitudinal research that could identify key factors of successful strategies.