Developing a model for empowering at-risk early childhood children aged 3-5 years in the community to access services in the form of developmental camps, Khuang Nai Hospital, Ubon Ratchathani Province.

Abstract

      This participatory action research (PAR) was conducted in three phases: (1) Situation and needs assessment; (2) Model development and implementation; and (3) Evaluation and refinement. The sample consisted of 50 at-risk preschoolers and their caregivers. Data were collected using standardized developmental screening tools, satisfaction questionnaires, and developmental outcome assessments. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data underwent content analysis.

      Results : The situational analysis revealed that all sampled children exhibited developmental risks in at least one domain, with language and communication being the most prevalent. Caregivers identified barriers to service accessibility and expressed a need for proactive, participatory interventions. The developed model, "Empowering At-Risk Preschoolers (Ages 3–5)," comprises three key strategies: (1) Shifting to proactive community-based services to overcome accessibility barriers; (2) Strengthening family participation by integrating developmental promotion into daily routines; and (3) Prioritizing risk management, specifically targeting language and communication alongside socio-emotional dimensions. Post-intervention results demonstrated significant improvements across all developmental domains (p < .05), particularly in language and social skills. Furthermore, caregivers reported the highest level of satisfaction, citing increased accessibility, enhanced knowledge, and improved confidence in supporting their children's development at home. Conclusion: The proactive, family-centered community camp model effectively mitigates developmental risks in preschoolers.