Welcome
The PPN website is a unique resource that offers credible, research-based information on what works to improve the lives of children and families.
Sometimes referred to as a "best practices" site or a "model program" site, PPN is both of those things and much more. In addition to providing information on Programs that Work, PPN also links to additional research information in all areas related to child well-being, including their physical and mental health, academic success, and economic security. These additional resources include Research in Brief, Resources and Tools and Expert Perspectives. To promote successful implementation of best practices and model programs, PPN also screens and posts evidence-based information on effective Service Delivery.
In addition to the breadth of information PPN provides, visitors can rely on PPN to provide information that has met our high standards for scientific credibility, objectivity, and clarity. Learn about our process for reviewing information for inclusion on the site and how to submit a program for consideration.
January 2012 What's New
Teens purchase fewer sodas when provided with calorie information
A new study published in the American Journal of Public Health found that teens reduced their consumption of sugary beverages when calorie information was posted alongside the beverages. Researchers compared the effects of posting the following information: (1) absolute caloric count, (2) percentage of total recommended daily intake, and (3) physical activity equivalent. Compared to the cases where no calorie information was provided, all three strategies caused a reduction in sugary beverage purchases. Posting the physical activity equivalent was the most effective strategy tested.
Read the abstract at the American Journal of Public Health website
Number of child maltreatment cases decreased in 2010, marking a third year of decline
The Administration for Children and Families (ACF) released its annual report on child abuse and neglect, "Child Maltreatment 2010". In this report, maltreatment is defined as neglect, physical abuse, psychological maltreatment, and sexual abuse. The ACF found a reduction in the number of child maltreatment cases in 2010 as compared to the previous year. In 2010, an estimated 754,000 children were identified as victims of maltreatment, a decrease from the 763,000 victims identified in 2009.
Read the news release at the Administration for Children and Families website
Children continue to suffer declines in economic well-being during the recession
Two reports issued recently show that the recession continues to negatively impact the economic well-being of children. The Brookings Institution examined the following three indicators of children's economic well-being: (1) children with an unemployed parent, (2) number of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP, formerly food stamp) benefit recipients, and (3) child poverty. While the number of children with an unemployed parent decreased between 2010 and 2011, both the number of SNAP recipients and the child poverty rate increased during that period. The U.S. Census Bureau also issued a report that indicated that the percent of families with children receiving Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF), a federal welfare program, increased from 3.8 percent in 2006 to 4.8 percent in 2009.
Read the Brookings report and the U.S. Census Bureau news release
PPN Newsletter
Read the PPN Newsletter for January 2012
The PPN email newsletter features regular content updates to the PPN website, such as new programs and research briefs that have been added.
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Awards and Honors
The PPN website has been recognized with the following awards and honors:
Innovations in American Government Awards, Harvard University Kennedy School of Government (Award Finalist 2006)
Child & Family WebGuide, Tufts University
Children NOW Web Award
Adding Wisdom Award, Parent to Parent
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