Open Kindergarten Phase 3 Evaluation Report
Open Kindergarten model shows benefits for families and early years support
A new evaluation has highlighted the impact of Scotland’s Open Kindergarten project, pointing to improved outcomes for both children and parents.
The approach, led by Parenting Across Scotland, is based on a Nordic model which brings families together in informal early years settings alongside trained staff and access to specialist support.
Parenting Across Scotland is a national network of organisations working to promote and support positive parenting.
Delivered with partners including Children in Scotland, The Open University and Midlothian Sure Start, Phase 3 explored how the model works in practice across different communities.
Findings suggest it helps build parental confidence, reduces isolation and improves access to wider services. Practitioners also reported stronger relationships with families and more opportunities for early intervention.
Sophie Elliott, Senior Development Officer at Children in Scotland said:
The evaluation of Phase 3 has demonstrated the positive difference that the Open Kindergarten model has continued to make for families across the Lothians. The report captures the voices of parents, carers and practitioners, who have continued to emphasise the importance of accessible and relationship-based whole family support.
The project has been supported through the Scottish Government’s Whole Family Wellbeing Fund, with learning expected to inform future approaches to holistic family support.
Read the final evaluation report here.
Read the executive summary here.
You can read more about the different stages of our Open Kindergarten work and the different resources available here.
About Parenting Across Scotland
Parenting Across Scotland is a network of charities which offer support to children and families in Scotland. They work together on issues that affect parents and families.
